Zamalek SC advanced towards the CAF Confederation Cup after a narrow victory 1-0 over the Kenya Police FC at Nyayo Stadium.
It was the first encounter with the Egyptian giant but the law enforcers put an impressive fight before conceding a goal.
Visitors started strongly, controlling possession before the police found a footing and started counteroffensives.
All indicators pointed to the officers triumphing but poor finishing was their undoing.
Their first chance came in the 25th minute when a well-executed passing move freed Jaffari Owiti whistled just wide of the goalpost.
Then on 41st minute Francis Kahata’s through ball toward Owiti was skilfully stopped by Zamalek goalkeeper Mohammed Sobhy.
A subsequent counter by David Okoth was unsuccessful after he missed the target.
Few minutes before halftime Aboud Omar’s foul near the edge of the box gave Zamaleks a free kick.
Zamalek squad celebrating the goal.
This was the opportunity the defending champions longed for. Veteran winger Abdallah El-Saeed curled a heavy shot, giving them a lead.
In the second half they adopted defensive approach as the host tried their best for an equalizer.
Jesse Were squandered a golden chance few minutes before the last whistle.
“We are very proud of the boys. They have done their best but it was not good enough today” Police coach Anthony Kimani said.
He promised the squad will be well prepared for the return leg on Friday in Cairo.
Acting Inspector General of Police Gilbert Masengeli graced the tournament.
