The Colombian coach arrived in Egypt last week to take over from Portuguese tactician Jesualdo Ferreira, who parted ways with the club in March.

Joh Okoli put Arab Contractors ahead in the 25th minute after intercepting a through pass inside the box and firing past keeper Mohamed Sobhy.

Nine minutes later, Ahmed "Zizo" El Sayed shot from inside the box after a poorly cleared ball from a throw-in to level the score.

In the 58th minute, Mostafa Shalaby was fouled in the area and converted the resulting spot kick, putting his team in the lead.

Although Zamalek appeared to be in control of the game, defender Hossam Abdel-Meguid gave away the ball to Fady Farid, who shot from inside the box in the 92nd minute to snatch a precious point for his team.

The two-time defending champions have slipped further away from the title race, now standing fourth in the table with 40 points, 13 behind leaders Ahly, who have played three games fewer.

Zamalek's main aim will be to finish second this year to secure a Champions League spot next season.

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