CAF Confederation final: Zamalek name 25-man squad USM Alger trip

Zamalek have unveiled a travelling squad packed with experience and attacking depth as they head to Algeria for the first leg of the CAF Confederation Cup final against USM Alger.

The White Knights are set to be hosted at the July 5, 1962 Stadium on Saturday night, with the Egyptian giants aiming to secure a positive result away from home before returning to Cairo for the decisive second leg.

In goal, Zamalek will rely on a trio of Mohamed Awad, Mahdi Suleiman, and Mahmoud El Shenawy, offering both experience and competition between the sticks. The defensive unit features a blend of established names and versatile options, including Mahmoud Hamdi “El Wensh,” Ahmed Fatouh, Omar Gaber, and Hossam Abdel Meguid, all expected to play key roles in containing the Algerian side.

The midfield selection highlights Zamalek’s depth, with seasoned playmaker Abdallah El Said leading a group that also includes Mohamed Shehata, Ahmed Rabie, and rising talents such as Youssef Wael “Fransi” and Adam Kayed. Brazilian attacker Juan Bezerra has also been included despite recent injury concerns, underlining the technical team’s willingness to keep all attacking options available.

Up front, Zamalek boast a dangerous trio in Nasser Mansi, Uday Al-Dabbagh, and Saif Al-Jaziri, each capable of leading the line or operating in fluid attacking roles. Their presence gives the team multiple tactical options as they look to break down USM Alger’s defence.

The squad announcement reflects Zamalek’s intent to approach the first leg with both caution and ambition, balancing defensive solidity with attacking threat. With continental silverware within reach, the Cairo-based club will be eager to take control of the tie before hosting the return leg on home soil.

All eyes will now be on Saturday’s encounter, where Zamalek hope their carefully selected squad can deliver a performance worthy of a club chasing another major African title.

Zamalek’s squad traveling:

Goalkeepers: Mohamed Awad, Mahdi Suleiman, Mahmoud El Shenawy

Defenders: Mahmoud Bentayj, Ahmed Fatouh, Mahmoud Hamdi “El Wensh”, Hossam Abdel Meguid, Mohamed Ismail, El Sayed Osama, Mohamed Ibrahim, Omar Gaber

Midfielders: Mohamed Shehata, Ahmed Rabie,  Mahmoud Jihad, Ahmed Abdel Rahim “Esho”, Mohamed El Sayed, Youssef Wael “Fransi”, Abdallah El Said, Adam Kayed, Ahmed Sherif, Chico Panza, Juan Bezerra

Attackers: Nasser Mansi, Oday Al-Dabbagh, Saif Al-Jaziri.