Zamalek’s midfield dynamo Mohamed Shehata was forced off the pitch early during their clash with National Bank on Monday at Cairo International Stadium in the Egyptian Premier League’s fourth round.
The midfielder couldn’t complete the first half after feeling discomfort in his left knee. Despite briefly attempting to continue, he later complained of a muscle strain, prompting immediate action from the medical staff to avoid further damage.
Zamalek’s coach, Jose Peseiro, didn’t hesitate to react, calling on Mohamed Hamdy as a swift replacement. The move aimed to preserve the team’s structure while protecting Shehata from worsening the injury.
Shehata’s absence is a setback for Zamalek, as the midfielder has been key in anchoring the squad’s central play this season. The full extent of his condition remains unknown, but the early substitution raises concern over his availability in upcoming fixtures.
Meanwhile, the match kicked off in explosive fashion. National Bank’s Nasser Maher stunned Zamalek with a goal just 23 seconds after kickoff, setting the tone for a tense and fast-paced first half.
