Zamalek Continue to Drop Points for the Fourth Consecutive Match

Zamalek’s frustrating run of dropped points continued for the fourth straight match after being held to a 1-1 draw by hosts National Bank of Egypt in the 12th round of the Egyptian Premier League.

At Cairo International Stadium, Zamalek fell behind to a penalty converted by Osama Faisal for National Bank (30’), before Angolan striker Chico Banza equalized just three minutes later (33’).

Zamalek had already drawn with both El Gouna and Ghazl El Mahalla and suffered defeat against Al Ahly. With this latest setback, they now sit fourth on 19 points — four behind leaders Ceramica Cleopatra — while National Bank climbed to ninth with 15 points.

The draw further underscored Zamalek’s inconsistent start to the season and ongoing dip in form. Their first real chance came in the 13th minute when Abdullah El Said delivered a precise corner that Mohamed Ismail met with a powerful header, only for goalkeeper Abdelaziz El Balouty to produce a fine save.

The referee awarded National Bank a penalty after Mohamed Ismail fouled Osama Faisal inside the box. Faisal stepped up confidently and sent the ball into the right corner past goalkeeper Mohamed Sobhi (30’).

Zamalek responded swiftly as Brazilian Juan Alvina threaded a clever pass into the area that found Chico Banza. His first effort was blocked by El Balouty, who also denied Alvina’s follow-up, but Banza reacted quickest to slot home the rebound from close range (33’).

The visitors pushed forward through wide plays and frequent crosses — especially from Nasser Maher and Abdullah El Said — but El Balouty remained solid, confidently dealing with every threat as the first half ended 1-1.

In the second half, Alvina squandered Zamalek’s best opportunity in the 56th minute when he headed Nasser Maher’s cross onto the bar. Belgian coach Yannick Ferreira’s substitutions failed to change the outcome, as the match ended all square at 1-1.