Modern Sport — Zamalek : Match Preview and Prediction for August 21,2025

Modern Sport’s Current Form

Modern Sport enters this fixture in impressive form, a testament to their recent consistency. An examination of their track record reveals that the team has remained unbeaten in eight of their last nine outings. This remarkable run is not merely a stroke of luck but a reflection of a well-established tactical approach. Under the astute leadership of Magdy Abdel Aaty, Modern Sport has clearly achieved a strong on-field equilibrium, evidenced by their commendable performances against formidable opponents.

Recent Performance Against Top Teams

Their ability to challenge stronger sides is evident from their 2-2 draw against Al-Ahly. Furthermore, their most recent encounter, an away fixture against Al-Ittihad Alexandria, resulted in a convincing 2-1 victory. Modern Sport demonstrated an attacking mindset in that game, registering three shots on target and generating two significant goal-scoring chances, reflected in an xG of 1.26. This team consistently capitalizes on opportunities and excels at disrupting opponents who typically dominate possession.

Modern Sport’s Home Advantage

Far from being an easy opponent, Modern Sport has established itself as a resilient and formidable squad. They have successfully earned points from the reigning champions and secured a challenging away victory. Their performances unequivocally show their capacity to dictate terms and achieve positive outcomes, making them a particularly hazardous adversary, especially when playing on what is considered their home ground, even if it’s a neutral venue.

Zamalek’s Recent Struggles

In stark contrast, Zamalek appears to be navigating a more turbulent period. Their previous fixture against Al-Mokawloon Al-Arab concluded in a disappointing goalless draw. A deeper dive into the match statistics reveals a concerning trend: despite enjoying overwhelming ball possession (70%), Zamalek managed to register only one shot on target. This highlights significant issues in their final third execution. An xG value of just 0.71 is undeniably subpar for a club with Zamalek’s aspirations.

Off-Field Issues and Squad Challenges

The club’s challenges extend beyond the pitch, with internal unrest adding to their woes. While management strives to shield the team from reports concerning the club’s land write-off in October, the prevailing atmosphere inevitably impacts performance. Further complicating matters are coach Yannick Ferreira’s recent squad selections. Striker Seifeddine Jaziri and Moroccan player Abdelhamid Maali have both been omitted due to technical reasons, and midfielder Ahmed Hamdi is unavailable due to contractual disputes. Such decisions clearly signal that the coaching staff is still experimenting with line-ups, indicating a lack of stability and harmony within the squad.

Venue Change and Head-to-Head Record

Adding to their difficulties, the match has been relocated from Cairo to the Suez Canal Stadium in Ismailia. This venue change deprives Zamalek of their customary home support and effectively transforms what would have been an away game into a fixture on a quasi-neutral pitch. While historical records might suggest Zamalek’s dominance in head-to-head encounters, recent form tells a different story. The ‘White Knights’ have failed to secure a league victory against Modern Sport since November 2023, with their most recent clash in January 2025 culminating in a 0-1 defeat for Zamalek.