The victory moved Masri to 12th place in the league table with 28 points, seven ahead of the relegation zone while Mahalla remain fourth on 35 points.

Mahalla will be left ruing their missed chances as striking duo Ahmed Hassan and Amr Sobhi failed to deliver on two occasions with the goal at their mercy.

Zekri secured the precious win against the run of play one minute into stoppage time when a Mahalla defender's clearance hit his header and went into the net.

Elsewhere, Tanta's relegation worries were widened following a goalless home draw with Tersana.

Tanta lie at the bottom with just 18 points while Tersana are 13th on 26 points.