The White Knights have collected just two points from their last three league games, drawing 1-1 with Gouna before suffering a 2-1 defeat to arch-rivals Ahly in the Cairo derby then held again to a 1-1 draw by Ghazl El Mahalla.
This winless run has left Zamalek fifth in the standings with 18 points from five wins, three draws and two defeats.
Despite the domestic struggles, under-fire Belgian coach Yannick Ferrera, who retained the club management’s backing earlier this month, remains confident his side can still make a top-two finish this season despite the club’s ongoing on- and off-field troubles.
“The team still has the ability to finish the league in the top two positions. We have to deal with the problems off the pitch, and we can finish in the top two and participate in the Champions League next season," Ferrera told reporters.
Zamalek’s continental form has been far more convincing, as they secured a berth in the CAF Confederation Cup group stage following 6-0 and 1-0 victories over Somali debutants Dekedaha.
Adding to Ferrera's challenges, Zamalek will be without winger Ahmed Sherif, who picked up a muscular injury during Friday's win over Dekedaha, while Palestinian forward Adam Kaied remains sidelined with an injury.
In a potential boost for the Belgian manager, striker Nasser Mansi and midfielder Mohamed Shehata ar are back in contention for selection after recovering from injuries and rejoining the squad's training.
Meanwhile, NBE Club coach Ayman El Ramadi aims to capitalize on Zamalek's vulnerability to move his side off the bottom of the table, as they currently sit 13th with 14 points.
El Ramadi, who led Zamalek to an Egypt Cup victory last season, will be eager to prove his worth against his former team.
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