Pyramids FC have been dealt a setback just days before their much-anticipated first-round tie against Auckland City at Cairo’s Air Defense Stadium on Sunday.
The Egyptian side will be without key defender Mahmoud Marei, who has been ruled out after undergoing knee surgery earlier this week.
Dr. Mostafa El-Meniri, head of the club’s medical staff, confirmed that the operation was successful but said Marei will be sidelined for around four weeks. This timeline means he will not only miss the Auckland City game but also a potential meeting with Al-Ahly of Saudi Arabia if Pyramids advance.
The injury occurred during a recent league match against Modern Sport, forcing Marei to sit out the clash with Al-Ahly. Follow-up scans and medical checks revealed the need for surgery, which doctors carried out on Monday.
The defender had already endured knee cartilage repair in the past, making this latest setback particularly tough for both him and the team. Pyramids FC will now have to rely on their squad depth as they push forward in their campaign.
