Pirates go into the match at the Petro Sport Stadium knowing they must beat the Egyptian side if they want to finish top of Group B and avoid a probable semi-final tie against Group A leaders Al Ahly. Kick-off is at 20h30.
Zamalek tactics
Former FC Porto coach Jesualdo Ferreira has brought stability to the team and a philosophy of holding the ball in midfield, before unleashing attacks.
The 69-year-old Ferreira, known in Portugal as ‘Professor’, tends to use a 4-2-3-1 formation, basing his tactics on controlling the midfield, and favouring the right flank. Though this tactic has only one specified forward, the midfield players have the ability to score from outside of the area.
Strengths
The front line represents the real power of the team, featuring some talented and powerful players.
Zamalek pose a significant threat on the right flank, where Hazeem Emam, Omar Gaber and Ayaman Hefny all have the ability to put in crosses or cut infield while moving forward, in addition to performing solid defensive work.
The defensive unit has proven solid and goalkeeper Ahmed El-Shenawy had recorded clean sheets in 18 of 29 domestic league matches this season as Zamalek led Al Ahly and Enppi by nine points at the time of writing.
Weaknesses
The left flank, however is one area of weakness, as it features two players aged over 30. Left-back Hamada Tolba (33) was originally a centre-back but is now used wide, while his reserve, Ahmed Samir, is young and talented but unconvincing in a defensive role. Left-wing Ahmed Eid, at 35, has shown of late that he can be a liability as he runs out of steam in the second half.
One headache for Zamalek, though, is that they come off of two potentially tiring matches against bitter rivals in the local league in the build-up to the continental matches. First up is Misr Elmaqasah, currently fourth in the league, followed by fifth-placed Al Ismaily just three days before their match against Pirates in South Africa.
In addition, they will not be able to add any players to the squad before the Pirates match, as the local transfer window only opens in August.
Players to watch
The players Pirates need to watch out for are Bassem Morsi, who is nicknamed ‘The New Meteb’ as he plays with the same style as Egyptian international veteran Emad Meteb. He has managed to score 13 goals in 23 league matches in his first season with the team.
Attacking midfielder Ayman Hefny is a great dribbler - fast with a lithe body - which allows him to evade players in tight situations, and which has led to him being dubbed ‘The Magician’. He can surprise at any time, and he also can play on the right wing.
Mostafa Fathi, 20, is one of a few players remaining from last season’s squad, but he has proven his worth, with his goals and assists helping the team to achieve six points against El Raja and El Nasr on the domestic front.
