Zamalek will not relax against Ismaili, says Al-Sheshini

The White Knights, who held arch-rivals Ahli to a goalless draw in Thursday's Cairo derby, could play a pivotal role in determining the Egyptian Premier League winner.

They will next face league leaders Ismaili, the club whom they enjoy a good relationship with.

Rumors suggested that Zamalek would be lenient against Ismaili to give them the chance to deny Ahli from winning a fifth consecutive league title.

"I can assure all people that this will not happen," Al-Sheshini told reporters after Zamalek's draw with Ahli.

"We will try to maintain our recent fine displays and beat Ismaili."

Ismaili, who won the last of their three league triumphs in 2002, are on top of the table on 54 points, one ahead of second-placed Ahli who have a game in hand.

Al-Sheshini was full of praise for Zamalek's defense, who kept Ahli forwards at bay throughout the game.

"Our defenders marked Ahli forwards very well today. The midfielders also played a key role in containing our opponents," he added.