Eric Portapotty
14 years ago
1 week ago
3,322
I've been struggling to get back into FM having played out a couple of disastrous saves with Valencia and the Caribbean, so I thought I'd revisit one of my more enjoyable saves, albeit 5 years back.

This is where the save last stopped: http://sortitoutsi.net/content/get-comment/157850

Though we didn't draw Damanhour again, thank goodness for that:

https://sortitoutsi.net/uploads/mirrored_images/WsSah6CSIt7T0rzyd6goI1TkdNhOCkQcaNcfthC4.png

As a result we didn't choke this time round and went on to win the whole thing instead.

Anyway... what's different now?

https://sortitoutsi.net/uploads/mirrored_images/2lDXu59H1LTYXBVJXvI1KNYaUrbfVItBQLuiQ6HS.png

I decided to stop faffing about with the Akoto experiment (forcing him to play in defence when he's really an AM) and go for actual quality.
For this same reason Yao stays, I can't have too much upheaval in the defence while Salah Amin (as we all know) will be rubbish for the foreseeable future.

Unfortuately I decided to keep Yao after signing his replacement:

https://sortitoutsi.net/uploads/mirrored_images/sbdLyuErBesBcrNBWK7ImOtJ4xYMHlYJGVQGr0EZ.png

He's a proper handful in the air (like Yao) and has good defensive ability, but you can't help but feel that only one of them was needed here, not both.
No matter, it might help any prospective change to a back 3.

But I digress - since this is a fresh start, I thought I'll do things differently:
- Stop finishing 4th and win the title earlier;
- Refrain from signing disruptive cancers (cough Georges Bamba cough);
- And delay the financial apocalypse.

And of course win the bloody Champions League title.
Some things won't change because they've been tried and tested (Abdellaoui) but on a whole it won't be the same.
Cymro
17 years ago
4 days ago
6,379
I'm so happy this is back!
itchycoo
15 years ago
1 year ago
1,652
Love that this one is back!
Johno
17 years ago
1 week ago
2,643
Premium
Fantastic to see this back
Eric Portapotty
14 years ago
1 week ago
3,322
Thanks guys, unfortunately I'm currently on a course and won't be able to play this anywhere near as often as I would like (i.e. on weekends only).

----------------------------------

Preseason/Transfer Deadline Day*


*and everything in between


https://sortitoutsi.net/uploads/mirrored_images/F2zXG4XuLQXJ5gChNl12xwmzfxT6mfUQJqIK2pha.png

Preseason wasn't anything special, we didn't turn on the style till the final match as shown.

That said, we did bring that style to the Supercup:

https://sortitoutsi.net/uploads/mirrored_images/wBpCdOMltvJPIwb7ZpKXn9zpKqPvMR5mwE2ktBg5.png

Ok, maybe not but we did fully exploit playing the 4-6-0 against a 4-4-2.

We let them control the play through their defenders, but managed to intercept balls to their midfielders to go on the counter at speed.
Well of course there's a lot that can go wrong with voluntarily conceding possession:

https://sortitoutsi.net/uploads/mirrored_images/WN5mH0eTRi9nYrBRNhExj50DHeFcMuVBLRf6R0GN.png

Case in point - Zamalek we much more intelligent with their system and played a DM in front of their back 4, preventing us from breaking the way we did previously. As a result we were under constant pressure from the get-go, and eventually crumbled; humble pie indeed.

https://sortitoutsi.net/uploads/mirrored_images/9djsvt4NrRfmAXjjna7AKa0JwdeEBVJIsbEJfAwd.png

Transfers wise it's not too bad, there's the aforementioned Shehata and 3 loan deals - though business could have concluded earlier than on deadline day itself...

https://sortitoutsi.net/uploads/mirrored_images/v4BxLLRKftQsaZq7EB9PZO1kFgPIg0l0sBr3fqhK.png

A surprisingly good option down the right, when Mahmoud Ibrahim is needed up front.
Not that he showed it against Zamalek, but he showcased some of his ability against Al-Rajaa.

https://sortitoutsi.net/uploads/mirrored_images/liWhwjW9Ea1xnq9Z3Ic0GbRDpWpABMD70eHQ1EjU.png

Excellent business, managing to secure the services of a proper fullback for once, from Inter too.
Provides some sort of cover on the left wing as well.

https://sortitoutsi.net/uploads/mirrored_images/Q0IoOcIv6o2L8jv5vyfUkjl8lXuWsD7es0Gh16ol.png

He was very, very last minute - I'd been chasing another Moroccan rightback throughout the window but he kept playing hardball, so I had to settle if I were to even think of attempting a 3-5-2 this season.
The bad news is that it's only for 3 months, so he won't even play to the January window.
Eric Portapotty
14 years ago
1 week ago
3,322
August 2025


A quick update to end off the month:

https://sortitoutsi.net/uploads/mirrored_images/BsV23eGxDxfoX12W9J4eISJP0nFf3i6m2BNkyYqD.png

Persisted with the strikerless system despite the Zamalek reversal, paid dividends again.

https://sortitoutsi.net/uploads/mirrored_images/EhG8TlmGSUKPWATymsCJBMuftQErl1BuXomIy3DE.png

We went quite a few notches higher here, tearing their backline a new one despite giving up possession to the league's bottom-feeder.
Abdel Kader is revelling as the tip of the diamond, able to set up the wide forwards of go it alone himself as the auxiliary striker - though the eral star here was Emam, with 3 goals and 3 assists.

https://sortitoutsi.net/uploads/mirrored_images/CYQ47RbOlNwfNJJIzjtASWBoXG93Z0V5uEmjPaDD.png

Early days, but with our scoring prowess a steady climb in the next few weeks is possible.
Dan
12 years ago
4 months ago
16,964
Glad this is back, some good strong victories in the latest stint!
KEZ_7
17 years ago
1 day ago
1,875
Pleased to see this back mate!
Eric Portapotty
14 years ago
1 week ago
3,322
Cheers guys, but I'm unable to update this as I'd like as previously mentioned unfortunately.

------------------------------

September 2025


https://sortitoutsi.net/uploads/mirrored_images/JyFmgSNHNsoYJy3pV5ZNj0AUmXPkOMPhaxliXbSz.png

Played a 4-5-1 here, not the most convincing win to be honest, but it's 3 points nonetheless.
But it does look a return to the 4-6-0 would lead to a more more convincing performance.

https://sortitoutsi.net/uploads/mirrored_images/CngLcEXexhsCxiavU7LjzGpIPZVBfRNkuKjG3jZc.png

No.
It was a terrible result period, but it's still annoying that we conceded the opener from a headed goal, when Yao and Shehata have an average height of 1.935 metres.

https://sortitoutsi.net/uploads/mirrored_images/YTlXxmmA3nsKL0VcoKjiNcJiRmhrezvYfFsbxX1E.png

Fresh from licking our wounds after that rude awakening, we moved to a 3-5-2 against Mansoura.
Again, far from convincing, but I'll take a draw from a goal down under these circumstances.
And a Fun Fact: Prior to this encounter Mansoura absolutely destroyed Zamalek 5-1(!)

https://sortitoutsi.net/uploads/mirrored_images/r4YMss3XsKnZSzkvYWcWd2fb1ueF5HJHInuor1qA.png

I'll have to get my tactics right pronto if we're to make up that 5-point gap.
Eric Portapotty
14 years ago
1 week ago
3,322
October 2025


https://sortitoutsi.net/uploads/mirrored_images/fypvTGYZINSPYu7j3S62TevvpiVtub3pT9M2Q7ez.png

Attempted to replicate the 9-1 game's tactics here (sitting deep with minimal pressing and go on the counter) - evidently it went to pot.
After a switch to a more proactive mentality we clawed our way back into the game, but it still had to take a last gasp winner to settle the contest.
Wouldn't want to sit through the 1st half again though.

https://sortitoutsi.net/uploads/mirrored_images/N4Ot7diNIIlkkENXHXr620DOI4xHp9glSkzMDrpF.png

Took an early lead from a corner, but what followed was a shocking display of 'finishing' - Mamdouh Reda didn't do his chances of earning a permanent stay any good with multiple wasted opportunities, but the main offender was probably Ahmed Emam, really expected more from him.
Didn't help that the 2nd penalty was a wrong decision, but it wouldn't have matter if we hadn't been so wasteful.

https://sortitoutsi.net/uploads/mirrored_images/S5kNm5OIuu5oObkYwGnZ26SASqcqf4vMjgJLBiGi.png

Then this happens.
Guess it's really all about taking your chances then.

https://sortitoutsi.net/uploads/mirrored_images/gBNm5vXQgO31KNbUYEHBUJi3INE6OwRbDNZW2mEp.png

2 ways to look at this:
1. That we lost to Ismaily and nearly did so against Damanhour and are still 6th, or that
2. that we thrashed Al Ahly (again) and are still 6th.
Funny little league, this.
itchycoo
15 years ago
1 year ago
1,652
Why am I not manageing in Egypt..?
Eric Portapotty
14 years ago
1 week ago
3,322
Why am I not manageing in Egypt..?

1. Only 3 foreign players allowed in the Premier League, 2 for the 2nd tier
2. 10 years(!) consecutively to obtain Egyptian nationality.
3.

https://sortitoutsi.net/uploads/mirrored_images/RZApayr3Ff3lqv0OMax1PPtEy6vGLKlPX6kWnk1x.png

If you're not Al Ahly you'll have massive problems filling your stadium.

Seriously the main problem is the gate receipts, even after the title win I still couldn't get a sniff of 20k averages, and if it wasn't for the windfall we'd be proper bankrupt by now.
itchycoo
15 years ago
1 year ago
1,652
I see... What's not to like!
Eric Portapotty
14 years ago
1 week ago
3,322
I see... What's not to like!




---------------------------


November 2025


https://sortitoutsi.net/uploads/mirrored_images/0azJAjvrmuDmdCgv6me0nyWQZoy9bQmyPWt1csBY.png

We started November with a game where we deserved to win, but weren't supposed to if it wasn't for a fortuitous penalty in our favour.
That we failed to hold on to a 2 goal lead with 20 minutes to go made for uncomfortable watching.

https://sortitoutsi.net/uploads/mirrored_images/0StGGtvQbumvGUQQLWa1STjLjlub22PIpItmQLKH.png

Tried out the 3-5-2 here in an attempt to shake things up, we should have added to Compaore's early opener but for subpar finishing.
El Gouna then equalised and threatened to turn the game on its head when we finally found another gear and finished the game off.
Seems like we're going towards a more direct style of football, with quick transitions leading to our 2nd and 3rd goals.

https://sortitoutsi.net/uploads/mirrored_images/wf7S3tiP3Q2XVNHtOLNbwPR0e4dHIekntYwsLs7u.png

This game was all us - well it was supposed to be, until our backline deceided to fall asleep towards the end of the game - Suez with 2 goals from 2 shots.
They also had the (late, late) equaliser chalked off for offside, another game which I wouldn't like to sit through again.

https://sortitoutsi.net/uploads/mirrored_images/SJmCv86kJVGZEGT6kN61ax2cxOj63mmhuy93IXOn.png

We conceded the opener for the 1st time this month, and while we did regain the lead going into the interval it was apparent that a sharpening of the tools was required.
And so we did, we came out to the 2nd half like a team possessed, banging in goal left right and centre.
Good win, though we do need a kick up the backside from time to time.

https://sortitoutsi.net/uploads/mirrored_images/6vyOzI4ISLJM0AF19dZCTAwncXWs2iIr4RdOen4o.png

So a perfect month sees us well in the title chase, the hope is that we can maintain this towards the halfway point of the season.
Also, Al-Rebat We Al-Anwar (a mouthful, yes) are on course for one of the worst campaigns for any club ever - 7 goals scored and 65 conceded, which is and average of 5 a match if you can work it out.
Eric Portapotty
14 years ago
1 week ago
3,322
December 2025


https://sortitoutsi.net/uploads/mirrored_images/Vzyym11VNK4kVdt1ydrU1PS9y8PGNdSnu3uhQxAk.png

We began the last month of 2025 the way we shouldn't have - both fulbacks were absolutely suffering, which was weird considering I doubled up out wide against their 3-5-2.

https://sortitoutsi.net/uploads/mirrored_images/VtPN0N7EWHeqlz2cCPgwwSoLrOVpmE179NMngqb7.png

Bounced back with yet another footballing masterclass from Abdel Kader, our top scorer so far this campaign.
Assisted the 4th I might add.

https://sortitoutsi.net/uploads/mirrored_images/2wlIfZ1kYxFDYjBG6ogOtFlX0luFQGHKMBVgWep4.png

Well there's going from strength to strength, and then there's this.
Moataz Emam getting a hattrick was most unusual - he'd only been on when Abdel Kader dropped deeper as the playmaker, and scored with his 1st touch. then a 2nd, then a penalty - all in 9 minutes.

https://sortitoutsi.net/uploads/mirrored_images/4bcxiUWI9500UL2R785tUJ5PMRIPYEnpmApuM6vH.png

Following that up with this lacklustre performance was a disappointment to say the least, we still need consistency to our free scoring play.

https://sortitoutsi.net/uploads/mirrored_images/XiZvzOPYjDP4NkUIVJleI3vZ65tBCqIPU8BVE7SM.png

So instead of being right on Al-Ahly's tail we find ourselves 4 points off, and right in the mix for the top 4 spots.

Now for some good news:

https://sortitoutsi.net/uploads/mirrored_images/EQ37Km63j3PJpp8k2NHI0cc1aGx1g2Z6Pmstt4uF.png

His form this campaign has been nothing short of incredible, but I have to say I'm still surprised that he actually won it.
Eric Portapotty
14 years ago
1 week ago
3,322
January 2026


https://sortitoutsi.net/uploads/mirrored_images/dDY7QJfVeyi7tpsShedKfJDKTYQmpMx3aMjDJKyf.png

Some more disappointing defending led to us losing our lead and with it, a chance to avenge our season-opening defeat.

https://sortitoutsi.net/uploads/mirrored_images/rdWMQTaoXVm8RAw6p0IG57sBxqxl5Q1YnEpKvMyM.png

Rebounded well, safe to say we had the game under control, which is nice.

https://sortitoutsi.net/uploads/mirrored_images/g6NI3ttfwPc0tByGPbicenEPSk9p1H6q81Yg1G7A.png

I'd expected a proper thumping given how our previous encounter turned out, and a 5-2 is not to be sniffed at, but bloody hell was this an infuriating performance - the defence was utter pish, and Shehata is increasingly getting on my nerves.
Though I suppose Mounir Abdellaoui getting a hattric on his (second?) debut is a big positive.

https://sortitoutsi.net/uploads/mirrored_images/CsBLW1y4hvQA3dFBWhcJ4eAIUcnbXMgitOvNUzVi.png

4th, and 3 points above Masry, but that could all change as we're due to play them next.
Eric Portapotty
14 years ago
1 week ago
3,322
February 2026


https://sortitoutsi.net/uploads/mirrored_images/wRAJa4ato6BIT0Gp0MC6HzDFVfqS9DM1JxDk4sxD.png

We didn't exactly get a hold on the game, but having achieved a 2-goal advantage (albeit for only a minute) a point feels like a missed opportunity.

https://sortitoutsi.net/uploads/mirrored_images/bMp5Hp5b8oRDcnOj3sWYVlYZGpXGo0XPaHkWIQQ4.png

More rubbish defending led to another loss, though admittedly we could have done with more shots.

https://sortitoutsi.net/uploads/mirrored_images/XVgsqQE1AbtRCQZemDIawelJuULvKmiE0m3p2ndw.png

More or less comfortable, but Abdel Fatah's seriously suspect distribution led to Mansoura's consolation - little surprise we've only had 2 clean sheets all season then.

https://sortitoutsi.net/uploads/mirrored_images/M5TMPi4el8E2S7Z03LASMDacQPI6UrFlDIQmD8lx.png

Then there's this - we've been far too reliant with our goalscoring this season.

https://sortitoutsi.net/uploads/mirrored_images/HFQZSowvR43c517z5FcalIc1gnn1EKt8zYKsUbAA.png

I suppose our comparatively wretched form can but attributed to Adama Yao being sidelined for 5 weeks with a rib injury, but I can't excuse Shehata's inability to cut the mistakes out from his game - an aerial threat he is, but he's not much more than a liability in defence and it's not getting better.

Well at least there's continental distractions to look forward to:

https://sortitoutsi.net/uploads/mirrored_images/FQ2Es8B43xKmFJ4kdcUYUp9bKaEr8uNFNqWYKdFZ.png

A second-string side was put out here, but we should have scored more than just the single goal regardless.

https://sortitoutsi.net/uploads/mirrored_images/3rPiMYK6B5Hu4vw41XD8bAGt9lL4imwhwG1rHzTA.png

Better, though they we never a threat at any point and 4-0 on aggregate isn't cause for excitement tbh.

https://sortitoutsi.net/uploads/mirrored_images/yFiooV03sVnYSci491X7U88jUdgfcTjmq80aTvJk.png

And we'll need to step up our game against this South African top-flight side, not an easy tie by any means.
Eric Portapotty
14 years ago
1 week ago
3,322
March 2026


https://sortitoutsi.net/uploads/mirrored_images/Mhydl2iCtL6GcGPR479hBlJT2P9lL1Ip2aj1ecWB.png

Comfortable, though Abdellaoui didn't have the best game.

https://sortitoutsi.net/uploads/mirrored_images/7PGUewf390eyrDvH1qhBHipCR2X3MQPNgbCK3iuO.png

What followed was the most infuriating game I've had the 'pleasure' to watch.
A missed penalty, going behind early, waste chance after chance before finally gaining the lead, before being pegged back late on.
Up next? Al Ahly.

https://sortitoutsi.net/uploads/mirrored_images/mguOEmw8ZRCB4UIs9wDmNdBq95F6QwaeeS3idEVa.png

The same gameplan was employed as per our previous encounters, it worked perfect sans the finishing, evidently.
Didn't help that the penalty was yet another contentious one.

https://sortitoutsi.net/uploads/mirrored_images/9LRdichiTX6MH8O0pdq2g1hfLWE3ZElcpgLasNe6.png

5 games unbeaten, but only 6 point from the last 12 available.
And still only 2 clean sheets, we're doing a Liverpool it seems.

https://sortitoutsi.net/uploads/mirrored_images/ksmJ9a1h0aXNY9iRX4hFDSd6N3EGhBT6Cgiy0MAD.png

Better news in the Confederation Cup, we grabbed a decisive advantage away from home.
Eric Portapotty
14 years ago
1 week ago
3,322
April 2026


https://sortitoutsi.net/uploads/mirrored_images/h8iQt33hrv1OItuENX1UICFFLdpoWigqHTTDp4tY.png

For a long time it looked like I'd be coming away with only a point, so I can't complain about getting all 3.

https://sortitoutsi.net/uploads/mirrored_images/eQkR6NNkAwB5oju9p67liTNt5f1ThWmg8RWcDBXO.png

Not exactly an inspired performance, but lo and behold just a 3rd clean sheet of the season.

https://sortitoutsi.net/uploads/mirrored_images/8QvbiVWD0Y0qeymhtX1YKIAU8i4LO4zZwH9zbU71.png

We could've done with a goal or 2 from Abdellaoui, who endured a wretched day in front of goal - in fact he hasn't scored in 6 games already, a far cry from his earlier form.

Then:

https://sortitoutsi.net/uploads/mirrored_images/Fz2SD6GxiWXebaGtyvUJEJi1SLMdkhX8CjdFI583.png

Safe to say we weren't in any trouble whatsoever here.

https://sortitoutsi.net/uploads/mirrored_images/lBKacxNgTlYkhbksg6ZWEdO8KoUFBk9Ri6Igxtzy.png

Another unbeaten hauls us back into the chase for 3rd.
The title looks well out of our reach however, which is probably a missed opportunity considering Al Ahly's rather imperfect form.

Anyway, back to pitting against Wits now:

http://i.imgur.com/amiPU2X.png

Job done, and up next are Africa Sports of the Ivory Coast.

https://sortitoutsi.net/uploads/mirrored_images/Jfz5wJO6hPHLYT3raQgx8iiEvTO18FT1o5gOcPbS.png

It took quite a while to get going, and Ibrahim wasn't having a great game right up to his goal, a sublime finish.
I'd probably still put us as favourites to go through, but we really do need to avoid the sluggish starts.

Oh yeah, I forgot to mention this in the previous post:

https://sortitoutsi.net/uploads/mirrored_images/hB5jwwQIwUwpjidtqnByYrxAZBBBUeOcWoFbWeij.pnghttps://sortitoutsi.net/uploads/mirrored_images/8Wbm1ogX4h3zCe64oBDJCxVOFOUdUTmMSAimk5Iv.png

An average intake, only signed the top 3 prospects and the 2 better CBs to make up the numbers.

https://sortitoutsi.net/uploads/mirrored_images/MBfw7lDNQANYEEjyiDMFkPW4Yvwrt5KP2X1muD2G.jpghttps://sortitoutsi.net/uploads/mirrored_images/IKFKIi07JBPtQsFSa0v4X4s4t37gaJqYSkk8XDS2.jpghttps://sortitoutsi.net/uploads/mirrored_images/RtTl7AvZn1vgQhf285Ilbzhpkw07HMjfgFgnElpk.jpg

Al Ashri will probably not make it as a targetman, his sheer lack of strength or height count against his progress in the regard.
Looking into the possibility of a Shadow Striker role for him though.
Hassan possesses a good turn of pace, would be a useful asset should he develop properly.
Abdel Halim is a punt, has decent mental attributes but it's unclear whether he can make anything out of it.
Eric Portapotty
14 years ago
1 week ago
3,322
The Rest of the Season 2025/26


https://sortitoutsi.net/uploads/mirrored_images/T2Sb7mgduYzHlpo9ewnv4guofFACpNPYr2eyeLhJ.png

An early goal sealed the game, as our defence held on for yet another clean sheet.

https://sortitoutsi.net/uploads/mirrored_images/qZpqspvFRWF9MqhU8FzjnLLZSS0VqFvBsPEZPzrt.png

Incredibly, another thrashing of Al Moqaoloun was up next, bring our seasonal aggregate to 10-1.
They didn't do themselves any favours either with 2 own goals.

So we've come to the last game of the season - we've still not secured 3rd spot at this point, though a win would suffice, and a draw as well provided other results went our way.

https://sortitoutsi.net/uploads/mirrored_images/VC8Z6yjFLEmDADuzk6ShAdMvqvyqq2PfRuAQZezc.png

Well I didn't win, disappointing considering we'd been on a roll defensively, for once.

https://sortitoutsi.net/uploads/mirrored_images/pVdikdbA9SRl28KUpEtAhLj4I4XdWmYeo14Vydkl.png

As it turned out we won't get 4th as well, due to losing out to Masry in our head-to-head this season.

It also meant that we'd have to win the Egyptian Cup (or have one of the top 3 win) to qualify for the CAF Confederation Cup next season - which we did last time out.

https://sortitoutsi.net/uploads/mirrored_images/edBL7MjbErMYg4a3JMtQX1gVObq3gxffYyybMvaE.png

Shabab Ebshouay were sufficiently easy opponents, and a 2nd-string side promptly handed them a paddling.
But our next opponents won't prove to be as willing to bend over - it's Al Ahly.

https://sortitoutsi.net/uploads/mirrored_images/PDldoyaNBHnqXN0HgobcV2OKQUkg3ftDXdtzZmml.png

4th time's the charm - for them, that is.
We employed the same tactics that were used against them for our 3 previous encounters, but substandard defending from setpieces meant that we were unable to soak up the pressure and break on the counter as we did.

The result meant that one off them, Zamalek and Masry have to win the Cup for me to get continental competition in 2027 - easy enough.

https://sortitoutsi.net/uploads/mirrored_images/cqmjbJYiiZbeY1scksfh7uTfCiXCDoo2HSb5kKvF.png

Except it wasn't - that's us out of the continental scene next year then.

Wait, what of our 2nd leg then? Could we find solace and progress in this year's edition?

https://sortitoutsi.net/uploads/mirrored_images/Yr2pBpT8XPC6eKP4Zp6ANFELcCELMFfGUmlcm2fC.png

No.
Played with a more proactive mentality here, but we just couldn't find a winner.
Eventually paid the price, for this and the 1st leg - should have been out of sight against an inferior Africa Sports side.

https://sortitoutsi.net/uploads/mirrored_images/JOYKMSwSr3mecxe92svHHDZuZzirMZtPEjLfNKf2.png

So it's been a rather disappointing season, quite topsy-turvy at the start, before settling on an unbeaten streak which (ironically) also saw us go out of continental competition and the race for third.
Changes galore for next season it seems, quite a few contracts running out.
Eric Portapotty
14 years ago
1 week ago
3,322
Preseason 2026/27


https://sortitoutsi.net/uploads/mirrored_images/2DnHhOG0Wa1OKRCY3cfHDIWRfM4RHO8YYGPcGkzY.png

Further proof of his frankly superb last season...

https://sortitoutsi.net/uploads/mirrored_images/g1zue0Q8AwC7jC5A5e6QcUEnNcDblx4075vFdbhV.png

So it makes sense to give the PoTY award to Mabrouk anyway.

https://sortitoutsi.net/uploads/mirrored_images/gLqfAM9iVZwi9YORMv7uzQVFbRxwNWUZNcf7Xgsm.png

No surprises here,

Now for preseason:

https://sortitoutsi.net/uploads/mirrored_images/qGKVc1AR2U7QcLneqMFkrGBaMvTBGL1UkA6UIHnj.png

The reserves got more gametime in these games, should've organised more games so the seniors could get minutes under their belt as well.
In any case, we beat teams that we were expected to beat, and lost to the only superior team in Montpellier.

Transfers - a sea change this time round:

https://sortitoutsi.net/uploads/mirrored_images/mHdhOknvg44nJop2irw7AYmE1s0znzWxoEDdS3Xf.png

A couple of senior players (Abbas, Ahmed, Mahrous and club legend El Sayed) had their contracts run out as I looked to integrate the youth products ever more into the 1st team.

https://sortitoutsi.net/uploads/mirrored_images/Dbfe38p3xFoFECrnuhXXneh5QGJe4yCYo4lTXiSa.png

He was signed in anticipation of Compaore's potential return to Inter.
It turned out that Compaore agreed to extend his loan, but nevertheless Wael is a very useful addition anyway - a left-footed leftback with competent attacking ability (precisely what Bahaa Adel wasn't).

https://sortitoutsi.net/uploads/mirrored_images/2EPQJki1xbSg75Yts08NnBv3jHXNfoRn7blSbcEQ.png

Released by Al Moqaoloun at the end of last season, he's got a higher ceiling than both Mahrous and Kamel, and is on less wages as well.

https://sortitoutsi.net/uploads/mirrored_images/vNwHC93CKBOlS36v68S8zaTVvWo4Uq0665uYH9ZN.png

A deadline day acquisition from the HoYD, I wasn't overly keen on stunting his progress but having him here as a 5th-choice CB (or a 3rd choice RB) so he was immediately sent out for some top flight game time at newcomers Qanah.

Anyway, this is the squad I'll be going with this season (till January anyway):

https://sortitoutsi.net/uploads/mirrored_images/mLD4k61HfuMcu8NJYE9OfcU5Hz96rR783fCF0UFl.jpghttps://sortitoutsi.net/uploads/mirrored_images/iKUcMSHjjx7GZjaYXYF3tGwf7AEUB3R5DBIoR8yT.png

As you can see there's much more potential than ability here, bit of a risk but I wasn't going too far with the old guard, so why not?

https://sortitoutsi.net/uploads/mirrored_images/DEb1FrwDiWd4CKp3Fv8FgMwbiyQUmnNhAyWmGnFo.png

In any case we're still 5th favourites.
Eric Portapotty
14 years ago
1 week ago
3,322
August 2026


https://sortitoutsi.net/uploads/mirrored_images/jk9BZJbtwPlFjXDdxkA30O9tNUDLEiU9gXRTJfyz.png

Opening day was a disappointment, oh so poor at the back and we required a controversial penalty to score our opener.
I won't say that we deserved to win, but Abdellaoui missing his 2nd peno is a real kick in the teeth.

Anyway, following this reversal I decided to shake up the team in anticipation of a less challenging Wadi Degla side (compared to Al Ahly anyway).

https://sortitoutsi.net/uploads/mirrored_images/KuxTQjed5nua6r7ndr7nO9Wrz4sFJZsj80Staduy.png

Suffice it to say I was wrong - very wrong.
Didn't expect Diaby and Salah Amin to do this much worse than Yao/Shehata, looks like my faith in the youth isn't going how I'd expect it to.

https://sortitoutsi.net/uploads/mirrored_images/LWeRwbezHM4fpONSWIYXBudE54T5BAOm0IGd5GDA.png

Played it much more sensibly (starting with an actual full-strength XI), but it still had to take a contentious decision to get our opener.
Defence turned up this time, unfortunately the attack still hasn't gotten the memo.

https://sortitoutsi.net/uploads/mirrored_images/xbYaWQxsHTgqQn9KRTrVhGG6oCrVfQhXOLpZT9JA.png

The malaise goes on - our attack was completely hopeless and while the defence did enough for the most part, all it took was a goal kick over the top for Abdel Fatah to score the winner against his hometown club.

https://sortitoutsi.net/uploads/mirrored_images/56Itjr56xuZRS1vpASMMtXROQ0KAfNupam9WJTGK.png

A shameful opening month sees us firmly in the bottom half of the table, and with 2 of our 5 goals coming from the penalty spot (under controversial circumstances too), it's evident where our most worrying area lies.
Eric Portapotty
14 years ago
1 week ago
3,322
September 2026


https://sortitoutsi.net/uploads/mirrored_images/EhKhhZHDZ90uoMacCtUc5j7fX7edwJpG739D0w0J.png

Sensing blood the regulars were fielded against Qanah, and boy did it pay dividends.
Showing some proper combination play, we finally managed a thrashing.

https://sortitoutsi.net/uploads/mirrored_images/Jz6wSQ3Rw6UfOBp7yvCQyKQAqeXHS4Bg4NqBfBtW.png

Qanah was a false dawn it seems.
The 1st half whizzed by, in that there were virtually no highlights worth mentioning and the game quickly simmed to the interval.

The opener was classic FM (not the radio statiion):



We eventually got an equaliser but we're under no illusions that last season's top scorers are performing anywhere near their best ability.

https://sortitoutsi.net/uploads/mirrored_images/qZIYW43cdadloOLyPK9Ve4wfhRQAyuvVn1avAW2f.png

The scoreline suggested a comfortable win, but in the 1st half it was some way off of that.
Still, another win is another win, given our start it's what I need now.

https://sortitoutsi.net/uploads/mirrored_images/pJnysAhNgiTnCcwAoxCIX4CNSXl4uG4NPEEeAMbr.png

Like the Wadi Degla reversal it's mainly my fault, again starting a younger team against the league's current cellar-dwellers.
That said, all of Abdel Kader, Ahmed Emam and Mahmoud Ibrahim came on in the 2nd half but couldn't find a goal.
Worse still, Ibrahim suffered an injur and would be out for 2 weeks.

https://sortitoutsi.net/uploads/mirrored_images/HMDUMNrwyIgeDxSqepX46YBW3K8nqmUVfKl6wQLD.png

2 months in, still in the bottom half - lots and lots of fixing needed.
Eric Portapotty
14 years ago
1 week ago
3,322
October 2026


https://sortitoutsi.net/uploads/mirrored_images/zHu76NBvOEzu2e0Xvsy6D2kMsz347v8S7jc8Ae1y.png

Probably out best performance against a top-ish side so far, reverting to a strikerless system on the counter worked brilliantly, as did playing Farouk on the right as a wide poacher type.

https://sortitoutsi.net/uploads/mirrored_images/yco6o8JGjh9FPHRc119PHPjTKsXpIRmqhdw3C57o.png

Unfortunately we weren't able to keep it up against Zamalek; despite impressively dominating the contest, we weren't able to find the next, with Mabrouk and Ibrahim particularly wasteful.

https://sortitoutsi.net/uploads/mirrored_images/1O1b1ALVsuFz9GuF9Qjw56Kyqxh79Dp1eR8OEfsK.png

Abdellaoui managed to have a had in all 6 goals in another dominant display.
Only complaint? Even here he managed to miss a sitter, and he could do with proper consistency.
But you know, being picky and all :p

https://sortitoutsi.net/uploads/mirrored_images/YCM3c1VDM9mlJ6vwKdbL50DvSaq2RvqH6LqXKzNC.png

3rd time lucky, as against starting the youngsters yet again finally paid off with Al Ashri getting a treble in his 1st start as a central striker.
He's got an excellent work rate, could mould him into a Kuyt-esque striker once he works on his speed sufficiently.

https://sortitoutsi.net/uploads/mirrored_images/HIyyHw4aLcuP95BeRwgfTBoTXl7QYr8xaD2yhQo7.png

Another comprehensive win, the momentum's really getting us through these games easily it seems.
That's 9 unbeaten as well, looks to be a good recovery from our early season calamity.

https://sortitoutsi.net/uploads/mirrored_images/0YMaQj7PHzCE1bedxcSfVlrusTCzHBZtqfWWIpJI.png

13 points from 15 has seen us climb into the top half, albeit still 9 points adrift of leaders Ismaily.
Guess who we play next then...?
Eric Portapotty
14 years ago
1 week ago
3,322
November 2026


https://sortitoutsi.net/uploads/mirrored_images/fK3qqLF3TTcYaYamWXsXSKyk8Ddbm0eny5nJgxkT.png

No shame in nicking a point against the league leaders, but given that we were the dominant side one wonders what we could have come away with had we been more clinical.

https://sortitoutsi.net/uploads/mirrored_images/vdIvaVvNGe46dxrBkeLSCJhxf0WVMrcdujCqOys5.png

No worries here, as comfortable as they get.

https://sortitoutsi.net/uploads/mirrored_images/gnl26lDpcWZZJhZrVONNIDx0XBG46Tc2kLDS4I8M.png

I was expecting it to be one of those days where we'd spend all day trying (and failing) to hit a barn door with a banjo when they scored the opener, thank goodness we woke up and managed to go into the break in front.
Ibrahim was great here, having been frankly dire against Haras El-Houdoud - a bit of shouting seems to have worked.

http://i.imgur.com/aH8ANST.pnghttps://sortitoutsi.net/uploads/mirrored_images/06XlSKNOcVyUwBmotOywQ9hYQtTV8Yn5elWIWc9J.png

A brilliant run has finally seen us secure a comfortable position in the top half, though the doors to the top 3 are still out of reach.
Al Ahly are up next, let's see if our run can withstand their power.
Dan
12 years ago
4 months ago
16,964
Definitely a good run of form here mate, keep it going!
Eric Portapotty
14 years ago
1 week ago
3,322
December 2026


https://sortitoutsi.net/uploads/mirrored_images/fa0b44h9JvVSaVOCYfdgxj52rmqEcHbRdcPu2pP7.png

We played a customary counterattacking system that we do against Al Ahly, unfortunately neither side had the clinical finishing on board, though both goalkeepers did well to ensure clean sheets for both sides.

https://sortitoutsi.net/uploads/mirrored_images/86VPN6ymjW74G9ckQIehdeWnNMipy58Dsu7eIwFA.png

TL;DR Mahmoud Ibrahim is a phenomenal idiot.
We started terribly, but subsequently bombarded the opposition area until we eventually regained the lead.
Then Ibrahim two-footed someone from behind, and got his marching orders.
Damanhour then started their own offensive as we increasingly sat back to preserve our lead, but the pressure told and we eventually conceded on the 94th minute, when only 3 minutes of injury time had been given, something Mark Hughes would be able to empathise with I would imagine.

Ibrahim would go on to get a 3 match ban, the colossal piece of shit.

https://sortitoutsi.net/uploads/mirrored_images/0h4fXOTMHiblZFVJHX4Qy1xYWoEpxsQNjAu1k5VB.png

Poor defending an a great free kick from Fawzy condemned us to our third draw in a row.

https://sortitoutsi.net/uploads/mirrored_images/6OwOTPSMq1lcNCOsb7wZ3hsGiuZQicfZu2d3SK1I.png

The momentum was always going to end, and unfortunately Tersana were to benefit for our wasteful showing.
It was one of those games where we could have done with Ibrahim's ability, but oh right he's banned, cunt.

https://sortitoutsi.net/uploads/mirrored_images/mBUANochALB6LDEmO5kp5TEQa5oT6evxb2fo7irq.png

I have to say, we managed to recover very well from that reversal, with a very comprehensive victory over Al Moqaoloun.

https://sortitoutsi.net/uploads/mirrored_images/je3TUgU9tfFwUfUCXtpU9uNLNo4naCn2Yq6vF9D8.png

Some may point to only 1 loss this month, but the reality is 6 points from 15 this month has again put us out of sight of continental qualification, and unless a miraculous recovery happens for the remainder of the campaign this season is effectively a write off.

January sees no league games, instead we've got friendlies lined up:

https://sortitoutsi.net/uploads/mirrored_images/orpjEUwvZRigKQ5AbHPlE7RHQLY5zWV24se7Q1Xs.png

And we've also signed key players to new deals:

https://sortitoutsi.net/uploads/mirrored_images/0pObgKgkjCTSHhVNHjM45T0OcuxueUQbtolj3Hub.pnghttps://sortitoutsi.net/uploads/mirrored_images/sXRQOMuxh5AROZJjVbRKXy260HU2gYo9DUNEg7wU.png

Ibrahim also got a new deal, in which all 3 got bumps in their salary and will burden the club further in years to come.
Eric Portapotty
14 years ago
1 week ago
3,322
January February 2027

*And a bit of March because I'm a colossal idiot

As mentioned there weren't any league games in January, and I'd only just realised why - the Africa Cup of nations was going on, in Egypt.

Anyway, back to business:

https://sortitoutsi.net/uploads/mirrored_images/w7W61AfAWEFR94DpeUrKRxbGGRbiqu9KPmknjdv3.png

The defending wasn't up to scratch, but our attack would prove to make up for it - good win.

https://sortitoutsi.net/uploads/mirrored_images/UdGKTzjIrPNlwmojMHkl9K8gYnG28QhpJV911S5L.png

Same story here, except this time our attacks were more fruitful and we were so much more suspect with defending crosses.
Seriously, it should've ended 8-4 or something if it wasn't for the woodwork.

https://sortitoutsi.net/uploads/mirrored_images/ilIoAaAGgsKS3sviyEkqxmQI2gy3LGRi8Q2bXBib.png

Frustrating game, Masr El Makasa we're ever looking likely to score but they certainly were on course to keeping a clean sheet.
Eventually their resistance broke and we managed to secure another win.

https://sortitoutsi.net/uploads/mirrored_images/CXGSwUkxU714gqD7zYY9ox0GE4whoKNPvls1prXW.png

We weren't even playing a high line, yet the defence was caught hopelessly out of position when ENPPI opened the scoring.
We tried to amend the problem the only way we knew how (bombarding the opposition goal) and to our relief the equaliser finally came on the stroke of half time.
Notched up a couple more to give the scoreline some respectability, but this wasn't as comfortable as 3-1 suggested.

https://sortitoutsi.net/uploads/mirrored_images/o9HNMhanibqZSgHYUn3GkxYjwK8QI20EEPkecalH.png

Tersana (with their new tycoon sugardaddy) are now shock runaway leaders, while a miracle has indeed happened and we've managed to claw our way back to a whiff of continental contention.
Though admittedly there's still some way to go before we can actually lay claim to the top 4.
Eric Portapotty
14 years ago
1 week ago
3,322
(the rest of) March 2027


https://sortitoutsi.net/uploads/mirrored_images/SwMEr7iHdp94QLExGCI8oVgVmhigdBgBIqzcPUls.png

Such a frustrating match.
We managed to carve out a decent lead despite not having the majority of possession, they got a goal back before the break, and I went into the interval making it explicitly clear that there was no room for complacency, not when we're still only halfway through.
Then they go out and concede the equaliser.

Worse still, Ibrahim tore his hamstring and would be out for 3 months.

https://sortitoutsi.net/uploads/mirrored_images/i98kyaREvuRNjSqGKlHceGbgrPBSa4Ha7w8awrEI.png

Well this was a proper putdown.
As with the Masry game, we went into the break a goal up against the run of play, having withstood a barrage of sorts on our goal.
We come out for the 2nd half, Ahmed Hassan Abdel Kader disastrously misplaces 2 passes, our defending simultaneously went to complete pot, and suddenly we're 3-1 down.
We spent the rest of the game taking potshots, but we never looked able to making up for our fuckups.

https://sortitoutsi.net/uploads/mirrored_images/DvZteY4Ei8Cl3bmwn7KKeKVEEfEoQ8njn1NUrcNt.png

Tersana will win the title barring a horrific collapse, period.
For us though, 7 points from 3rd with 7 games to play, can we do it without Ibrahim?

Away from the league, it's March so we've got the new intake of youth players coming though:

https://sortitoutsi.net/uploads/mirrored_images/7Fgl2Y5dscPM9STLd00onEdVqTzMhRGZoupWYuYI.png

Overall a better bunch, but it's probably worse in that the standouts aren't as good.

https://sortitoutsi.net/uploads/mirrored_images/9WIRBS6tVWV2Wes3mjVB7J9Ufq2eXTNZ34Qwg3qY.png

He's essentially the opposite of least year's Abdel Halim - physically gifted, but almost bereft of proper mental or technical ability.

Lastly:

https://sortitoutsi.net/uploads/mirrored_images/jSzDl0hh6qOOofyrOLRCOofs9tJSJYq9e7uXGdCs.png

A bit of moonlighting, may or may not help my prospects of a future club gig there, but at the moment I'd very much prefer the Egyptian equivalent.
itchycoo
15 years ago
1 year ago
1,652
Only 5 defeats and yet only in 8th place. But a good run at the end of the season could see you climb quite a few steps.

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