Zamalek duo Omar Gaber and Mahmoud Bentayek undergo doping tests after Belouizdad win

Two players from Zamalek SC, Omar Gaber and Mahmoud Bentayek, were subjected to post-match doping tests following their side’s hard-fought 1-0 victory over CR Belouizdad in the first leg of the CAF Confederation Cup semi-final.

The crucial encounter, played at the Nelson Mandela Stadium, Algiers, saw Zamalek take a valuable advantage in the tie thanks to a decisive goal from Juan Bezerra, giving the Egyptian giants a narrow but important lead heading into the return leg.

Omar Gaber was named in the starting lineup and delivered a solid performance as Zamalek managed the game with discipline and defensive organisation. His experience played a key role in helping the team withstand pressure from the Algerian hosts.

Mahmoud Bentayek, meanwhile, was introduced in the second half, replacing Palestinian forward Oday Dabbagh as Zamalek looked to maintain control and protect their slim advantage.

Following the final whistle, both players were selected for routine doping control procedures, a standard practice in major continental competitions, especially at the knockout stage. The tests were conducted as part of CAF’s strict regulations to ensure fair play across all matches.

Despite the added post-match procedures, Zamalek’s focus remains firmly on their qualification mission after securing a valuable away result in a tightly contested semi-final.

The tie now shifts to Cairo, where the return leg is scheduled for April 17 at Cairo Stadium. With only a one-goal advantage, Zamalek know the job is far from complete as Belouizdad prepare for a decisive second leg with hopes of overturning the deficit.

The stage is now set for a tense and high-stakes showdown, with a place in the Confederation Cup final on the line.