FILE - Zamalek's Midfielder Abdallah El-Said fights for the ball during the match against Masry on Monday 17 June, 2024. Ahram
The White Knights are determined to secure a win and crucial points to stay in the title race, though their chances remain slim. Currently sitting in third place with 38 points, they trail second-placed Ahly by four points and are eight points behind leaders Pyramids FC, with five games remaining in the season.
Zamalek enter the match fresh off a 2-0 victory over Haras El-Hodoud, fueled by goals from veteran midfielder Abdallah El-Said and striker Nasser Mansi.
However, the Cairo side have endured a turbulent run under Portuguese manager José Peseiro, who took charge in February. While they reached the Egypt Cup final, their CAF Confederation Cup title defense ended in a quarterfinal exit to South Africa’s Stellenbosch FC.
Compiling more trouble on the club, world football governing body FIFA imposed a new transfer ban on the Cairo-based side for failing to settle outstanding dues to their former Moroccan striker Khalid Boutaib.
Injury and suspension woes compound Zamalek’s challenges, as Captain Mahmoud ‘Shikabala’ Abdel-Razek, midfielder Nasser Maher, and winger Ahmed Jafeli are sidelined, while defensive duo Mahmoud ‘El-Wensh’ Hamdi and Mahmoud Bentayg miss out due to suspension.
Masry, meanwhile, will aim to replicate their 1-0 victory over Zamalek earlier this season and climb the league standings.
The Port Said-based side arrive in high spirits after a dominant 4-0 win over Petrojet in their previous fixture, showcasing resilience and determination under Tunisian coach Anis Boujelbene.
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