Zamalek will be looking to prove that their recent revival was no fluke when they face Arab Contractors in the Egyptian Premier League on Wednesday. The Cairo giants have picked up maximum points from two games against Gaish and Olympic for the first time since October to end a barren run. The seventh-placed team were inspired by some eye-catching displays from several youngsters such as Ahmed Al-Merghani, Alaa Ali and Hazem Emam. With nothing to play for, Zamalek's aim in the remaining league games will be to improve their league position and build a team for the future. "The technical staff and players are determined to finish the league in the best possible way," Zamalek assistant coach Sami Al-Sheshini said. Zamalek will miss Ghanaian striker Junior Agogo against Contractors. The 29-year-old's days at the White Knights appear to be numbered after consistent disciplinary problems tarnished his adventure at the club. Deep-lying striker Gamal Hamza, who is expected to join Swedish second-division side Vasalunds IF in the summer, also misses out after skipping training without excuse.
Ismaili failed to overcome Police Contractors will be looking to avoid defeat to make sure they stay away from relegation troubles. The Mountain Wolves lie 11th in the 16-team table with 29 points, five above the danger zone with six matches left to play. No Hope Ismaili host Ghazl Mahalla but they are aware that their hopes of overtaking leaders and holders Ahli have all but demolished. The Dervishes were held to a 2-2 draw by Police Union after wasting a handful of clear-cut chances to stay three points behind rivals Ahli, who still have a game in hand. "Perhaps technically we can still win the league, but realistically it will be very difficult to catch Ahli," Ismaili assistant coach Ahmed Al-Agouz said. Ismaili will have to do without regular duo Ahmed Khairi and Sherif Abdul-Fadil, who were expelled from Tuesday's training session after engaging in a scuffle. Mahalla, who have 28 points as they are yet to guarantee their top-flight status, are buoyed by their surprising 2-1 victory over Petrojet last week. They will be looking to claim their second consecutive win under new coach Sherif Al-Khashab, who took over from Khaled Eid last month.
