Mahalla had the better of the game's chances but were repeatedly foiled by Awad, who was also instrumental in Zamalek's 1-0 win over Arab Contractors last week when he saved a first-half penalty.

A depleted Zamalek side found it hard to carve out openings but Moroccan winger Bencharki came to their rescue when he connected with a trademark inviting corner from winger Ahmed Zizo to break the deadlock on 69 minutes.

He ensured the win 10 minutes from time with a simple finish from a rebound following some fine individual work from substitute Mahmoud Shikabala.

It is not yet clear whether Bencharki, whose contract runs out at the end of the season, will remain at the club until they conclude their league campaign on 30 August.

Reports said the fan favourite had already agreed to move to an unnamed Qatari club. Zamalek have also reportedly reached an agreement with Bencharki whereby he will be allowed to leave before the end of the season to join his new team for their pre-season preparations.

Zamalek's fourth straight league win heaps pressure on chasing duo Ahly and Pyramids FC, who meet in a vital clash later on Saturday. It will also boost their morale before they meet Ahly in the Egypt Cup final on Thursday.

The defending champions top the league table with 57 points, seven ahead of Pyramids, who played a game less, and nine clear of third-placed Ahly, who have three matches in hand.

Mahalla dropped to 14th in the 18-team table on 26 points in what is likely to be a tight battle to avoid relegation.

Awad saves

Although Zamalek had the better possession in the first half, it was Mahalla who came close to scoring on at least a couple of occasions.

Awad was the standout performer, palming away a powerful first-timer from Ivorian forward Ibrahim Kone and smothering another fierce volley from Moaz El-Hennawi.

He was also on alert to block a curling free-kick from Ahmed El-Sheikh on the stroke of halftime.

For all their territorial dominance, Zamalek found it hard to break down Mahalla's massed ranks and threatened only once when a foul from Bencharki forced a fine save from keeper Amr Shaaban.

Zamalek remained toothless in the second period until Bencharki rose the highest at the near post to head home Zizo's corner from eight yards out.

He then put the game to bed on 80 minutes, with Zizo starting the move which led to the goal by feeding Shikabala in the area, with the veteran schemer flummoxing his challenger with a nice piece of individual skill.

Shikabala's subsequent low shot was spilled by the keeper and Bencharki was on hand to bury home the rebound as Zamalek enjoyed a precious win.  

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