Al Ahly’s Sofiane Bendjeddah fit to face Smouha despite minor pain

Sofiane Bendjeddah is expected to be available for Al Ahly’s Egyptian Premier League meeting with Smouha on Thursday, despite experiencing mild pain during the club’s recent friendly against Delphi.

Bendjeddah reported discomfort during the warm-up match, but the problem is not considered serious enough to prevent him from taking part in the third round of the league season. The Al Ahly forward completed a rehabilitation programme during Tuesday’s training session as a precaution.

He is therefore expected to train and prepare normally ahead of the match with Smouha, with no indication that the minor issue will affect his availability.

Al Ahly will face Smouha on Thursday as they look to continue their perfect start to the Egyptian Premier League campaign. The Cairo club have won their opening two matches, beating ENPPI and ZED, and will now attempt to make it three victories from three.

Bendjeddah joined Al Ahly at the start of the current season after moving from Maghreb de Fes. The Morocco-born player has made two appearances for his new club so far, both from the substitutes’ bench, and has provided one assist.

He has not yet started a competitive match for Al Ahly, but has featured in each of the club’s first two league fixtures. His involvement against Smouha will depend on the coaching staff, although his recovery from the mild pain means he remains available for selection.

The training work carried out by Bendjeddah on Tuesday was part of his preparation after the complaint he made during the friendly with Delphi. His condition is being monitored, but the club expects him to be ready to play without any special restrictions.

Al Ahly’s opening victories over ENPPI and ZED have placed them in a strong position at the beginning of the league campaign. Bendjeddah has contributed in a supporting role during those matches, entering as a substitute on both occasions rather than being named in the starting line-up.

Thursday’s fixture with Smouha will provide another opportunity for him to compete for a place in the team, while Al Ahly seek to maintain their winning record. For now, the player’s minor discomfort has not changed his status ahead of the match, and he is expected to be ready for the third league game of the season.