Zamalek Title Win Sparks Controversy Over Belhaj Incident and Awad Penalty Save

Zamalek SC has been crowned the champion of the Egyptian Premier League for the 2025-2026 season, securing the Nile League title. Despite the victory, the coronation has been accompanied by significant controversy following a match against Ceramica Cleopatra.

The dispute centers on a penalty kick attempted by Ahmed Belhadj, which was saved by Zamalek goalkeeper Mohamed Awad. A video clip of the incident has since circulated, leading to widespread debate over the conduct of the players during the play.

Controversy Over Penalty Sequence

The controversy focuses on a specific moment described as “Belhadj’s wink,” which has triggered accusations of suspicious behavior and hints of manipulation. According to reporting from Kooora, Mohamed Awad has responded strongly to the allegations stemming from the footage.

The incident sparked a heated exchange between sports media figures. Khaled El-Ghandour issued a sharp response to Osama Hosny regarding the claims about Belhadj, telling Hosny to stop “laughing at people.”

Analyst Walid Maher identified the missed penalty as a pivotal moment in the match. Maher stated that the failure to convert the penalty was a turning point and noted that the save by the goalkeeper helped secure the result for Zamalek.

League Standings and Outcomes

The 2025-2026 Nile League season concluded with the following final positions for the top three clubs:

• Zamalek: Champions (1st Place)
• Pyramids: Runner-up (2nd Place)
• Al Ahly: 3rd Place

The save by Mohamed Awad against Ahmed Belhadj remains a central point of discussion in the aftermath of the title win, as different parties continue to debate the implications of the circulated video and the behavior displayed on the pitch.