Zamalek will be facing a test of character when they resume their Egyptian Premier League campaign against Military Production without suspended key man Shikabala on Friday. The talismanic number 10 has been pivotal in the league leaders' recent run, which saw him more than once win points on his own for Hossam Hassan's side. Having scored eight goals in seven games before last month's Cairo derby, Shika was then accused of making an inappropriate gesture towards Ahli fans, resulting in a one-match ban. However, the absence of the midfield wizard doesn't seem to be bothering his teammates, at least for Egypt mate Mahmoud Fathallah. “Shikabala's absence will not have any effect on our determination to win the game,” said the influential center-half. “I think when an important player is missing, the rest of the team should be able to cope and only focus on the three points.” In the same manner, Production assistant manager Tarek Hassan is aware his side will be facing the league leaders, regardless of Shika's unavailability. “When we put our plan, we do not focus on a single player. Yes Shikabala is an important, but Zamalek have a complete squad and they are in their best form at the moment,” he said. “But we will not be an easy ride for them, I assure you.” A probable replacement for the Zamalek virtuoso will likely be returning forward Hussein Yasser, who was dropped from Qatar's Asian Cup squad this week.
Ahmed Ali is another Ismaili star who excelled with Egypt But striker Amr Zaki is another big-name absentee as he continues to nurse a nagging knee injury. On the other hand, Production will hand new signing Khaled Yossri his debut, following a move from Arab Contractors. “Khaled will be our wild card against Zamalek,” added coach Hassan. Ismaili host Hodoud In another entertaining match, second-placed Ismaili will be looking to keep in touch with Zamalek when they meet the underachieving Harras Hodoud. The Dervishes are boosted by the good form of their international players, which include the Nile Basin tournament best player Ahmed Samir Farag. “We are very happy for Farag and we are also proud of what his teammates have produced in this tournament,” said Ismaili assistant manager Ahmed Qenawi. “The match with Hodoud is very important in our league campaign and will try to take advantage of the internationals' high morale.” Cup champions Hodoud will be looking to lift themselves from the bottom half of the table by registering their first league victory over Ismaili in five years.
