CR Belouizdad defender Chaib Keddad undergoes surgery ahead of Zamalek showdown

CR Belouizdad have been dealt a major setback ahead of their crucial semi-final clash against Zamalek SC, with key defender Chouhaib Keddad ruled out after undergoing knee surgery.

Keddad successfully underwent an operation following the injury he recently sustained, and is expected to spend time on the sidelines.

“Our defender Chouhaib Keddad underwent successful knee surgery following the injury he recently suffered,” the club announced, while extending their full support to the player during his recovery.

“The players, technical staff, medical team, administrative members, and the entire CR Belouizdad family wish him a speedy recovery and a quick return to the pitch to continue his journey with the team in the best conditions,” wrote the club.

Keddad’s absence represents a significant blow for Belouizdad, who were counting on his defensive solidity and experience for the decisive two-legged tie. His leadership at the back has been instrumental throughout the campaign, and replacing him at such a critical stage will be no easy task.

Belouizdad are set to host the first leg on Friday night at the imposing Nelson Mandela Stadium, with kickoff scheduled for 9 pm. The return leg will take place a week later, on April 17, at Cairo International Stadium.

Both teams have battled hard to reach this stage. Zamalek secured their semi-final spot after edging Congolese champions AS Otohô 3-2 on aggregate in a tightly contested quarter-final. Meanwhile, Belouizdad progressed at the expense of Al Masry SC, advancing on the away goals rule after a 1-1 draw in Egypt and a goalless stalemate in Algeria.

With tensions rising and stakes higher than ever, Keddad’s injury adds another layer of intrigue to an already gripping semi-final. Belouizdad must now reorganize their defense against a determined Zamalek side, while the Egyptian giants will look to capitalize on their opponent’s setback.

As the countdown to kickoff continues, all eyes will be on how Belouizdad cope without one of their key defensive pillars in a match that could define their continental ambitions.