Zamalek’s Mohamed Shehata suffers family tragedy ahead of Confederation Cup final

Zamalek SC midfielder Mohamed Shehata has been hit with devastating news ahead of the club’s crucial CAF Confederation Cup final clash against USM Alger.

The Zamalek star reportedly lost his father on Thursday morning, just days before the first leg of the Confederation Cup final scheduled to take place in Algeria next Saturday.

Shehata had travelled with the Zamalek squad to Algeria only a day earlier as preparations intensified for the highly anticipated encounter. However, the midfielder was informed of the tragic news after arriving with the delegation.

The return leg of the final is set to be played at Cairo International Stadium on May 16.

Reports indicate that the Zamalek technical staff, led by Moataz Gamal, will hold discussions with the player regarding whether he should immediately return to Cairo to attend his father’s burial or remain with the team ahead of the decisive continental showdown.

Mohamed Shehata has been one of Zamalek’s key performers this season as the White Knights continue their pursuit of both the Egyptian Premier League title and the CAF Confederation Cup crown.

Any potential absence for the first leg would represent a significant setback for the coaching staff, especially with Zamalek already dealing with limited squad options during this crucial stage of the campaign.