ZAMALEK Abdel-Wahed El-Sayed The second-choice Egypt international keeper is Zamalek's captain. He has been the club's regular custodian for over a decade, thanks to his solid displays between the sticks. Sayed is credited with helping Zamalek win the 2002 CAF Champions League. He also was named the best goalkeeper in the club's triumphant Egyptian Premier League (EPL) campaign in the 2002/2003 season. The 34-year-old, who was plagued by injuries in recent seasons, earned widespread praise after lately producing a string of impressive displays. Mahmoud Abdel-Razek ‘Shikabala' Shikabala is Zamalek's undisputed star. The in-form winger, who is repeatedly linked with a European move, is the league's top scorer with 13 goals. Characterised by dazzling tricks, neat footwork and goal-scoring instincts, the lively Shikabala is a prized asset for his club. Coach Hossam Hassan and Zamalek fans are placing their bets on the 25-year-old wizard to end Zamalek's derby jinx. Mahmoud Fathallah The Egypt international is Zamalek's most reliable defender and one of the team's most consistent performers. He will carry the burden of stopping the threat which the likes of Ahly's Emad Meteb, Mohamed Nagy ‘Gedo' and Mohamed Barakat are likely to pose during Wednesday's derby. Fathallah also makes major contributions in attack, as he scored four goals this season, thanks to his aerial abilities. However, he is yet to find the net against Ahly. AHLY Mohamed Barakat Mohamed Barakat combines speed, talent and determination with a goal-scoring instinct. He recently netted Ahly's first goal in the 2-1 win over rivals Ismaily in the Egyptian Premier League. The veteran 34-year-old midfielder scored four goals against Zamalek, including a memorable one in last season's derby. Barakat notched a last-gasp equaliser in a thrilling 3-3 draw when he cut inside his marker and hit a powerful shot past Abdel-Wahed El-Sayed from inside the area. Dominique Da Silva The Mauritania striker is starting to win over Ahly's fans after joining in the January transfer window to solve the team's attacking crisis. The burly and speedy forward made an instant impact following his second-half introduction in the 2-1 win over ENPPI last week, scoring and setting up Emad Meteb for another goal to help Ahly to a comeback victory. He is uncertain to start against Zamalek but can still play a key role if he comes on after the interval. Ahmed Fathi Fathi's versatility and his ability to close down spaces at the back, when he either plays as a right-back or defensive midfielder, give Ahly a major advantage. His steady performances make him one of Ahly's most influential players, although he is a media-shy player. The former Sheffield United man also improved his attacking abilities, scoring goals via set-pieces and whipping in inch-perfect crosses for his team mates.
