Ashraf Bencharki scored for Zamalek in the 18th minute to give the Egyptians a precious away win against Raja Casablanca ahead of next week’s second leg.
Zamalek of Egypt secured an away victory in the first leg of their African Champions League semi-final, beating Raja Casablanca 1-0 in Morocco on Sunday night.
A first-half header from Moroccan Achraf Bencharki, a former player of Raja’s city rivals Wydad, was enough to give Zamalek the victory ahead of next weekend’s second leg in Egypt.
His goal in the 18th minute came off a cross from Ahmed Sayed that dipped beyond Raja goalkeeper Anas Zniti.
The overall winners will meet either Wydad Casablanca or Egyptian giants Al Ahly in next month’s final.
Ahly have a 2-0 advantage over Wydad following their first leg victory in Casablanca on Saturday, so there is a strong chance of an all-Egypt final.
If the two finalists are from the same country, then the final will be hosted there. If it is Morocco v Egypt in the showpiece, then the final will take place in Egypt. (BBC)