Egypt’s Ahmed Rabie suffers broken nose in fresh blow to Zamalek

Zamalek midfielder Ahmed Rabie has suffered a broken nose, raising doubts over his availability for the Egyptian club’s upcoming domestic and African fixtures.

The injury comes ahead of Zamalek’s Egyptian Premier League meeting with Assiut Petroleum on Tuesday and their CAF Champions League second-leg encounter against Rwanda’s Army, with Rabie’s participation in both matches now in doubt.

Rabie revealed the injury on Sunday after Zamalek’s delegation returned to Cairo from Rwanda, where he had started Friday’s first-leg match in the second preliminary round of the African Champions League.

The midfielder shared a photograph on his official Instagram account and wrote: “Thank God for everything.. Broken nose.. God decreed and did whatever He wanted.

Press reports indicate that the injury is expected to keep Rabie out of the two upcoming fixtures initially, although his final availability remains to be clarified.

Rabie injury raises concerns ahead of busy schedule

The setback presents a challenge for Zamalek coach Motamed Gamal, who is preparing his side for Tuesday’s Egyptian Premier League fixture against Assiut Petroleum.

The match will be played in the seventh round of the competition, with Zamalek looking to respond after losing to rivals Al-Ahly in last Sunday’s derby.

Zamalek currently sit third in the league standings with 13 points from their opening six matches.

Rabie’s potential absence could affect the team’s preparations as they balance their domestic campaign with their pursuit of progress in continental competition.

Zamalek hold advantage in Champions League tie

Zamalek began their second preliminary-round tie against Rwanda’s Army with a 1-0 victory in the first leg at Amahoro Stadium on Friday.

The Egyptian side will host the return fixture at Cairo International Stadium next Saturday, aiming to protect their advantage and secure qualification for the next round.

However, attention will also be on Rabie’s recovery and whether the midfielder can return in time to feature in the decisive encounter.

With important domestic and continental matches approaching, Zamalek will await further clarity on the extent of the injury and the midfielder’s availability.