Zamalek's Forward Chico Banza fights for the ball during the match with Pharco. Ahram.
The Angolan forward capitalised on a blocked effort from Oday Dabbagh in the 48th minute, reacting quickly inside the box to slot the ball into an empty net without looking — his second goal in as many games.
Pharco's hopes of mounting a comeback took a major blow when Senegalese defender Babacar Ndiaye was sent off in the 61st minute, leaving his side to play the final half-hour a man down.
Zamalek, who began their campaign with a 2-0 win away to Ceramica Cleopatra, followed by a home draw with Arab Contractors and a 2-1 win over Modern Sport, now sit atop the league with 10 points — two ahead of surprise contenders Masry.
Masry were held to a 1-1 draw by Haras El Hodoud in another fixture on Tuesday, missing the chance to retain their early-season lead.
Substitute Nasser Maher nearly doubled Zamalek’s lead in stoppage time, but his shot hit the post, with Pharco struggling to escape their own half in the closing stages.
Despite the win, the team's performance remains unconvincing, and coach Yannick Ferreira will need to make improvements.
Zamalek return to action on Sunday, 31 August, when they face Wadi Degla.
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