Zamalek step up preparations for AS Port Djibouti as Mohamed El Sayed undergoes rehabilitation

Zamalek have resumed training ahead of their CAF Champions League meeting with AS Port Djibouti, with Mohamed El Sayed completing a rehabilitation programme after suffering an ankle injury in the team’s previous match.

The Egyptian club returned to daily training on Wednesday evening at the auxiliary pitch of Cairo’s Air Defence Stadium, following a one-day break after their victory over Montakhab El Suez Petrojet in the third round of the Egyptian Premier League.

Before the session began, coach Moataz Gamal held a meeting with the players and told them to temporarily put their league campaign to one side as they turn their attention to the CAF Champions League.

Gamal also outlined several tactical moves that the team would work on during the training session. The coaching staff used the meeting to reinforce the need for the squad to focus on the continental competition and the opening match of their campaign.

Players who started against Montakhab El Suez Petrojet were given recovery exercises during Wednesday’s workout. The programme was designed to help them recover from the match and reduce the risk of fatigue ahead of the club’s next fixture.

Mohamed El Sayed trained separately on the sidelines, carrying out rehabilitation exercises after twisting his ankle during the match against Montakhab El Suez Petrojet. The club did not provide a timetable for his return to full training or confirm whether he will be available for Friday’s match.

The technical staff, meanwhile, arranged an intensive physical programme for the substitutes and players who were not included in the matchday squad for the victory over Montakhab El Suez Petrojet. Their workload was increased as Zamalek continued its preparations for the first leg of the preliminary round.

Zamalek will face AS Port Djibouti on Friday at Cairo International Stadium. The match is the first leg of the first preliminary round of the CAF Champions League.

The club’s immediate priority is therefore the continental tie, following the instruction from Gamal that the players should close the league file temporarily and concentrate on their African assignment. Wednesday’s session combined recovery work for those who played, rehabilitation for Mohamed El Sayed and demanding fitness training for the remaining members of the squad.

Zamalek’s preparations will continue as they build towards Friday’s home fixture, with the coaching staff working to manage the physical condition of the players while also introducing the tactical ideas planned for the match.