Zamalek provides injury update on Juan Bezerra after Belouizdad clash

Zamalek have provided an injury update on forward Juan Bezerra following their hard-fought victory over CR Belouizdad in the first leg of the CAF Confederation Cup semi-final.

Bezerra experienced discomfort in his hamstring during the intense clash at the Nelson Mandela Stadium, Algiers and had to be replaced.

Providing an update, Zamalek team doctor Gerard Owusu Manzanette dicslsoed that the decision to withdraw Bezerra from the match was a precautionary measure.

“Juan Bezerra felt a slight strain in his hamstring and wanted to continue the match, but the coaching staff preferred to substitute him to give him enough rest so that the injury would not worsen,” he said.

The forward had been Zamalek’s standout performer in the first half before being replaced at the interval.

The match itself was filled with drama. Bezerra opened the scoring with a composed finish after a clever back heel assist from Nasser Mansi, giving Zamalek a crucial advantage just moments after CR Belouizdad had a goal ruled out for handball following a VAR review.

His strike proved decisive in a tightly contested encounter, helping Zamalek secure a valuable away win despite sustained pressure from the Algerian side.

Bezerra’s goal also extended his impressive season record, taking him to 17 goal contributions across all competitions. In the Confederation Cup alone, the 23-year-old has now scored four goals, including strikes against Dekedaha, Kaizer Chiefs, and CR Belouizdad.

His growing influence has made him one of Zamalek’s most important attacking outlets this season.

Coach Moataz Gamal opted to replace Bezerra at halftime after the player reported discomfort, prioritizing caution ahead of the decisive stages of the competition. The medical team is expected to carry out further assessments to determine his availability for upcoming fixtures.

Despite the setback, Zamalek managed to protect their slender lead and return home with a crucial advantage ahead of the second leg.

The tie remains finely balanced ahead of the return leg scheduled for April 17 at Cairo Stadium. Zamalek will hope Bezerra recovers in time as they aim to finish the job and secure a place in the Confederation Cup final.