The first football team of Alexandria’s Union Club has resumed collective training in preparation for the upcoming match against Smouha, scheduled for next Wednesday.
This clash is part of the third round of the Egyptian Professional Clubs Association’s League Cup.
Sitting atop their group with a commendable 6 points, earned from victories against Future and Municipal of Mahalla in the first two rounds of the League Cup, the Union looks poised to continue its winning streak.
The team, led by coach Tarek El-Ashry, has demonstrated consistency and determination in the competition.
The Union welcomes back goalkeeper Mehdi Soliman, who returns to duty after serving a suspension due to accumulating three yellow cards in the initial match against Modern Future.
Soliman is set to resume guarding the goalpost in the upcoming crucial encounter against Smouha.
In the second round, the Union secured a 1-0 victory over Mahalla’s Municipal team at Alexandria Stadium, elevating their point total to 6 and cementing their position at the top of their group.
This success guarantees the Union’s passage to the quarterfinals.
Tarek El-Ashry, the team’s head coach, granted a 48-hour rest period following their triumph over Municipal, demonstrating his confidence in the squad.
Meanwhile, defender Saif Taha was allowed a brief visit to Tunisia to be with his family for four days, a request granted by El-Ashry.
However, any delay beyond the stipulated period will result in disciplinary action.
Additionally, striker Benjamin Boateng’s request for leave was denied due to his suspension after receiving a red card in the recent match against Mahalla, a setback that influenced the team’s performance.
Club president, Mohamed Meselhi, urged the team to maintain their commendable performance against Smouha.
He emphasized the significance of the upcoming match, highlighting its potential positive impact on the team’s standing in the tournament.
Meselhi lauded the experienced players and expressed the board’s unwavering support for the proficient coaching staff, envisioning a successful journey for the Union in the League Cup.