Photo courtesy of Zamalek SC
Zamalek are currently second in the standings with 28 points, seven adrift of leaders Ceramica Cleopatra, who have played two more matches.
The White Knights arrive in less-than-ideal form after suffering a setback in continental competition following a shock 1-0 defeat to Zambia's Zesco United in the CAF Confederation Cup on Sunday, leaving Group D qualification for the competition to be decided in the final round.
The defeat dropped Zamalek to second in the group, two points behind Kaizer Chiefs, and they face a must-win home fixture against the South African side on Saturday to secure a place in the quarter-finals.
Domestically, the White Knights have been in fine form, climbing the Egyptian Premier League table following a resounding 5-2 victory over Kahrabaa Ismailia last Wednesday, marking their third consecutive league victory for the first time this season, a feat achieved despite relying heavily on youth players due to an injury crisis.
In a significant boost for Gamal, a number of Zamalek's key players, including captain Omar Gaber, veteran playmaker Abdallah El-Said, defender Ahmed Fatouh, Brazilian winger Juan Bezerra, midfielder Ahmed Rabea, and striker Seifeddine Jaziri, are reportedly expected to be available for the game after recovering from their respective injuries.
Smouha, meanwhile, will be looking to continue their own brilliant form, as they have claimed four consecutive victories across all competitions, propelling them to fifth place in the standings with 25 points.
The Alexandria-based side sit just one point ahead of sixth-placed Masry, who have a game in hand.
Smouha are also seeking to improve their head-to-head record against the Cairo giants.
In 32 previous encounters across all competitions, the Alexandrians have won six times, while Zamalek have claimed 20 victories, with six games ending in draws.
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