Zamalek SC are preparing for one of their most important matches of the season when they face Algeria’s USM Alger in the first leg of the CAF Confederation Cup final, scheduled for Saturday, May 10, 2026, at the 5 July Stadium in Algiers. The return leg will be played in Cairo on May 16, 2026, in a decisive clash to determine the champion.

Expected lineup

Zamalek’s technical staff, led by Moatamed Gamal, has settled on the main outline of the starting XI for the first leg. The focus is on strengthening the midfield and relying on quick attacking transitions. The expected lineup includes El Mehdi Soliman in goal, with a defensive line of Ahmed Fattouh, Mahmoud Hamdy “El Wensh”, Hossam Abdelmaguid, and Mohamed Ismail. In midfield, Abdullah El Said, Mohamed Shahat, and Mohamed El Sayed are expected to start, while the attacking trio features Zizo (Bezerra), Adi Dabbagh, with Nasser Mansi preferred by the coach as an impact substitute from the bench.

Chico Banza and the attacking boost

The coaching staff is seriously considering starting Angolan forward Chico Banza to add physical strength and pace in the attacking line, especially given the difficulty of playing away from home. Banza is seen as one of the key options to provide individual solutions and break through USM Alger’s defense, with strong indications that he could be included from the start rather than used as a substitute.

Mohamed Shahat and moral support

Mohamed Shahat is receiving strong support inside the Zamalek camp after the recent passing of his father. Despite this, the player insisted on staying with the squad and being available for selection. He is expected to play a key role in midfield due to the coach’s reliance on him to control tempo and balance defensive and offensive duties, while showing strong mental resilience ahead of the tough encounter.

Zamalek enter the match fully aware that small details could decide the outcome, especially against a strong opponent and in the intense atmosphere of Algeria, making every tactical decision and lineup choice crucial in the race for the continental title.