The Dervishes are second in the league table with 61 points, five ahead of second-placed Zamalek, who have two games in hand.

With title holders Ahli almost guaranteed a third successive Egyptian League title, Ismaili and Zamalek are battling to snatch the second spot which earns qualification to Africa's premier competition.

Midfielder Mohamed Hommos put Ismaili ahead in the 17th minute after connecting with a cross from the right flank to head home.

Suez midfielder Reda Ragab leveled the score seven minutes later when he sidestepped two defenders inside the area before drilling a close-range shot into the back of the net.

Abdullah Al-Shahat regained Ismaili's lead in the 37th minute with a powerful shot from the edge of the area.

Suez wasted a golden opportunity to equalize again after they were awarded a penalty just one minute later but Mohamed Al-Salam's poor shot was easily collected by Ismaili keeper Mohamed Fathi.

Mohamed Fadl ensured the win two minutes from time with a delicate chip over Suez's advancing keeper.