John Okoli on target as Arab Contractors suffer narrow defeat to Al Ahly

By Wale Mustapha

Nigeria striker John Okoli was on the scoresheet again for his Egyptian Premier League side, Arab Contractors in their disappointing 2-1 defeat to Al Ahly on Tuesday in Cairo.

The 25 year old was able to register his fifth goal of the campaign halving the deficit after the host had gone two goal ahead in the opening 22 minutes.

Ali Maaloul gave Ahly an early from the spot after Taher Mohamed Taher was upended in the box.

Ahly’s right back, Mohamed Hany had his low cross deflected in as an own goal by Farouck Noureldin in the 22nd minutes.

Al Mokawloon as Arab Contractors are also called managed to close the gap before half time with a beautiful header from John Okoli.

It was more of the visitors in the second half as they forced Ahly to many errors in their half and went close to punish them on several occasion.

Ahly and Egypt captain, Mohammed El Shenawy was needed to stop a strong shot from Okoli and was needed again to save Mamadou Niass’ effort late on to help the host secure the victory.

The Red Eagles reached 44 points at the top of the table and are now five points clear with two games in hand.