AL-ISKANDARIYYA, Egypt (Interstat) — Pharco opened its Egyptian Premier League season with a 2-1 comeback victory over Haras El Hodood on Monday at Borg el-Arab Stadium.

The visitors struck first in the fifth minute through substitute Mohamed Hamdy Zaki. Haras El Hodood held the lead until the 79th minute, when Pharco midfielder Mahmoud Abdelhalim equalized on a free kick. The comeback was completed seven minutes later as midfielder Yassine El Mallah netted the decisive goal.

The result defied a pregame projection that heavily favored Pharco. Four substitutes recorded assists in the match, which featured seven yellow cards. Pharco begins the campaign 1-0, while Haras El Hodood starts 0-1.