MCDR attacking midfielder Ayman Hefni raised eyebrows with a superb goal against Ismaili but he is looking forward to showcasing his talent in the 'more important' game against Zamalek. The promoted side, who fell behind to a goal from Ismaili's right-back Ahmed Sedik, looked on the verge of suffering their third defeat in six Egyptian Premier League games but Hefni rescued them with a brilliant strike. He met a corner from the left with a precise scissors kick that left the keeper with no chance and earned MCDR a share of spoils. Tarek Yehia's team are likely to face a tougher task against Cairo giants Zamalek on Saturday, a test that Hefni is eager to pass to fulfill his dream of earning an Egypt call-up. "Our game against Zamalek is of the utmost importance to me," the 24-year-old told FilGoal.com. "Millions will watch it and I'm looking to be at my best. I want to earn a place in Egypt's squad, that's one of my dreams." Hefni might have hoped to come up against Zamalek when they looked vulnerable at the back and misfiring upfront last month as a result of some technical problems on the pitch and administrative instability off it. But the White Knights, relieved after a calm chairman in Galal Ibrahim took the helm on a temporary basis, seemed to have regained their form after claiming two successive wins over Smouha and Arab Contractors.
Al-Hadari decides to stay put They are also boosted by the news that goalkeeper Essam Al-Hadari and wing-back Hazem Emam have made a U-turn on their decision to leave the club in January. Zamalek will only miss Ivorian striker Abou Kone, who joined in the close season from Military Production, due to a shoulder injury. A victory for Zamalek over MCDR, who lie 11th in the league table, will lift them to within one point of surprise package and leaders Police Union. Third-placed Masri, who made an impressive start to their season after spending big in the close season to strengthen their squad, will be looking to bounce back from their defeat at Harras Hodoud last Monday when they host Petrojet. Both sides, who eye a top-four finish, are equal on 11 points after seven games. ENPPI will be looking to ease the pressure on Bulgarian coach Stoycho Mladenov at the expense of Gaish. The petroleum side could not maintain a fine start to their league campaign after losing their last two games against MCDR and Police Union.
