CAF Confederation Cup: Zamalek midfielder Chico Banza returns for crucial Belouizdad clash  

Zamalek midfielder Chico Banza have returned to full group training ahead of the decisive CAF Confederation Cup semifinals clash against CR Belouizdad.

The Angolan international missed the first leg clash in Algeria following medial collateral ligament sprain. His comeback provides a timely boost for Zamalek as they prepare for a tightly contested second leg.

The team’s preparations intensified as they gear up to defend their narrow advantage from the first leg. Zamalek secured a crucial 1–0 win over CR Belouizdad in Cairo, giving them a slender lead heading into the return fixture, where qualification for the final will be decided.

At training, players who started the first leg underwent recovery sessions designed to reduce fatigue and maintain physical readiness.

Meanwhile, substitutes and squad members who did not feature were put through more intense physical and tactical drills under the supervision of head coach Moataz Jamal.

The technical session focused on rehearsing key tactical patterns, with the coaching staff working on positional structure, pressing triggers, and transition play. The session concluded with a competitive mini-scrimmage aimed at sharpening match readiness ahead of the high-stakes encounter.

With a place in the CAF Confederation Cup final on the line, Zamalek will be hoping that the return of key players and careful management of fitness levels will give them the edge they need to finish the job against a determined CR Belouizdad side.