Zamalek vs Baladeyet Mahalla prediction, H2H and probable lineups - December 28, 2025
One of the Egyptian Cup Round of 16 clashes will take place on Sunday at Cairo International Stadium, where local giants Zamalek host Baladeyet Mahalla. Here’s a prediction for this encounter, with a betting tip that comes with strong chances of success.
Match preview
Zamalek are rightfully considered one of Egypt’s football powerhouses, yet in their last five league matches, the White Knights have suffered just one defeat but have been held to draws on three occasions. This run has seen them slip to fourth place in the Egyptian Premier League standings. Zamalek currently have 22 points, trailing the leaders Ceramica Cleopatra by seven.
Since late November, Zamalek have been competing in cup tournaments, defeating Zesco United 1-0 in the CAF Confederation Cup and drawing 1-1 away against Kaizer Chiefs. Then, in the League Cup, they played out a thrilling 3-3 draw with Kahrabaa Ismaili and edged Haras El-Hodoud 2-1 at home. Coming into this tie against Baladeyet, the White Knights are looking to bounce back following a 0-1 home defeat to Smouha in the League Cup.
As for the visitors, Baladeyet Mahalla are representing Egypt’s second division and enduring a disastrous campaign. After 16 rounds, Baladeyet are firmly rooted to the bottom of the league table with just 9 points—five away from the safety zone.
In their last five outings, Baladeyet have managed just one win, alongside two defeats and two draws. After claiming a 3-1 away victory over El Mansoura, they suffered a convincing 0-2 loss away to Maleyeit Kafr El Zayiat last weekend.
Probable lineups
- Zamalek: Awad M., Gaber O., El Wensh Mahmoud, Fouad H., Esho A., Gehad M., Farouk Gaafar S., Juan Alvina, Kaied A., Sherif A., Nasser A.
- Baladeyet Mahalla: Fawzi, Tarek, Rabo, Tarek, Raafat, Ibrahim, Marzouk, Kandidus, El Sabahi, Saleh, Wishah
Match facts and head-to-head
- In 2024, these teams played out two draws in the Premier League
- The "Both teams to score" bet landed in three of the last five meetings
- The "Over 2.5 goals" market was successful in three of the last five encounters
Prediction
Bookmakers see little intrigue here, offering Zamalek at odds of 1.27 to win. It’s hard to argue with that, especially given Baladeyet Mahalla’s current form. The recommended bet is "Over 2.5 goals" at 1.58.