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Zamalek opened their campaign with a 2-0 victory against Ceramica Cleopatra last weekend, easing early pressure on new coach Yannick Ferrera after a mixed pre-season. Goals from Nasser Maher and Mohamed Shehata secured the points.
The five-time African champions will be without left-back Ahmed Fattouh, who continues to train alone after a disciplinary dispute during the pre-season camp. Moroccan defender Mahmoud Bentayg is set to continue at left-back after starting the opener.
Ahmed Rabie also remains sidelined, with club doctor Gerard Manzanet warning against a premature return from a groin injury. Rabie is in the second phase of his rehabilitation program and will not feature on Saturday.
Summer signings Oday Dabbagh and Juan Alvina are both in contention. Alvina joined full training for the first time since his arrival and is expected to be included in the squad. At the same time, Palestinian forward Dabbagh has completed an intensive fitness programme and could make his debut.
Ferrera, appointed in July, has urged patience as the team adapts to his system. “We are trying to implement new tactics that require time,” he told local media.
The Belgian is expected to retain the midfield trio of Shehata, Abdallah El-Said, and Nabil “Donga” Emad, with Chico Banza and Maher supporting striker Nasser Mansi.
Arab Contractors began with a 2-0 home defeat to ZED. Coach Mohamed Mekki has added experience with midfielder Omar El-Wahsh and forward Shokry Naguib, and is likely to set up his side in a compact shape to contain Zamalek.
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