Zamalek will be looking to get off their Egyptian League campaign to a winning start when they visit Ghazl Mahalla on Friday, despite missing two of their summer's major signings. The Cairo giants, who last won the elite title in 2004, will have to do without sweeper Hani Saied and Ghanaian striker Junior Agogo. Saied is sidelined after sustaining a foot injury in Zamalek's 1-0 Champions League victory over Zimbabwe's Dynamos on Sunday. His absence will leave a huge void in Zamalek's defense as the Egyptian international produced some impressive displays lately. Ahmed Magdi, who has been deployed as a midfielder recently, is likely to fill in for Saied. Agogo, who joined Zamalek from English club Nottingham Forest in the close season, won't take part due to a knee complaint. The 29-year-old, who is yet to open his account with the White Knights, shoulders the burden of covering the absence of Amr Zaki. Combative striker Zaki joined English Premier League side Wigan Athletic on a season-long loan.
Ibrahim Youssef Mostafa Gaafar is expected to partner Abdul-Halim Ali upfront against Mahalla. The duo will be supported by forward Gamal Hamza. Bright Start? Mahalla, who finished in eighth place last season, are targeting an invaluable win over Egyptian Cup holders Zamalek. "We will gain a huge psychological advantage if we defeat Zamalek in the league opener," Mahalla coach Ibrahim Youssef told FilGoal.com. "The players will have a confidence boost that will accompany them throughout the whole season if we overcome Zamalek." Youssef will have to find a replacement for star striker Ahmed Farag, who joined Egyptian champions Ahli in the close season. Mahalla signed frontman Mohamed Abdullah from lower division side Esco, but the player will not be available against Zamalek due to injury. "I expect Abdullah to be a revelation in the Egyptian League. Unfortunately, I will not be able to use him in Zamalek match." However, another new arrival, Ittihad's Saied Rabie, will start upfront alongside Abdul-Hamid Shabana.
