Zamalek beat National Bank of Egypt to make winning start in Egyptian Premier League

Zamalek defeated National Bank of Egypt 3-0 in Matchweek Two of the Egyptian Premier League, with Chico Banza, Hossam Ashraf and Ahmed Abdelrahim on target in a convincing second-half performance.

The opening goal arrived after the interval when Adi Dabagh delivered a cross from the left towards the penalty area. Chico Banza met it with a shot, and National Bank of Egypt defender Mohamed Nasr inadvertently turned the ball into his own net while attempting to clear.

Zamalek doubled their advantage when Mahmoud Bentayg produced an accurate cross from the left to the near post. Hossam Ashraf rose above the defence and directed a fine header into the left side of the goal.

The visitors completed the scoring in added time. A counter-attack began with Mohamed El Sayed carrying the ball towards the area before finding Ahmed Abdelrahim in front of goal. Abdelrahim made no mistake with a simple finish.

National Bank of Egypt had enjoyed more of the ball for long periods, holding 59% possession during the first half and 55% overall at one stage, while Zamalek had 41% and later 45%. The home side also registered six shots to Zamalek’s one during the opening stages, but struggled to convert their pressure into clear opportunities.

Yaw Annor came close for National Bank of Egypt with a powerful curling effort from the edge of the penalty area which struck the crossbar before going out of play. He also shot narrowly wide from outside the box, headed over from close range and later fired wide after breaking into the area alone.

Ahmed Meteb supplied a cross which goalkeeper Mehdi Soliman saved before Yaw Annor sent the rebound over. Rashada El Metwally also received a pass from Yaw Annor inside the area but could not keep his shot on target.

National Bank of Egypt continued to threaten after the break. Ahmed Madbouly forced an excellent save from Mehdi Soliman with a powerful attempt from outside the area, while Ahmed Yasser Rayan tested the goalkeeper with a low shot after moving towards the box. Ali Hamdy struck over from distance, and Francisco Anderson delivered a late corner which was headed wide.

Zamalek had chances of their own before taking control. Adi Dabagh’s long-range effort was saved by Abdel Aziz El Balouty and turned behind for a corner, while Chico Banza dribbled in from the right and saw another attempt stopped by the goalkeeper. Adi Dabagh also shot over from outside the area.

The match was briefly stopped while Mehdi Soliman received treatment for an injury. There were water breaks during both halves, and the referee added three minutes at the end of the first half and six at the end of the second.

Both sides made five substitutions. The game also featured several bookings, including cautions for National Bank of Egypt players after challenges on Mohamed Shahat and other Zamalek players, while Zamalek players were booked for fouls on Yaw Annor and Mohamed Nasser.

National Bank of Egypt pressed for a response after falling behind, but Zamalek defended their lead and added two late goals to secure a decisive victory.