CAIRO: Zamalek aim for a sixth straight victory when they visit Ittihad in an eagerly-anticipated Egyptian Premier League encounter on Monday.
A pulsating contest is expected to take place in Alexandria for various reasons, most notably the controversy surrounding the future of Ittihad star Mohamed Nagi Gedo .
The CAN 2010 hotshot admitted to signing a contract with Zamalek before extending his Ittihad deal earlier this year, only for the Egyptian FA to rule in favor of the latter.
Subsequently, a state of unrest occurred between both clubs, with Zamalek boss Hossam Hassan insisting over his side s right to acquire Gedo s services.
Apart from the Gedo saga, there is no lost love between Ittihad fans and Hassan, who was involved in a confrontation with the Alexandrians a few years ago when he used to play for Masri.
What makes the game even more exciting is the fact that a single point separates the two teams in the league table.
Zamalek climbed to fifth place after their recent revival, reaching 27 points, and could break into the top four with another victory at Alexandria Stadium.
Team News
Zamalek have striker Sayed Mosaad back in the squad for the first time since his stab-attack a few months ago.
Unsettled winger Hazem Emam has been omitted once again, as well as Ghana midfielder Rahim Ayew.
Ittihad striker Mohamed Al-Morsi, on loan from the Whites, is set to face his parent club and surely has something to prove to Hassan.
I m really eager to prove my worth against Zamalek. This game is an once-in-a-lifetime opportunity for me, the 27-year-old said.
Other Matches
Elsewhere, Petrojet are looking to cement their position in second place when they host lowly Gouna in Suez.
Mokhtar Mokhtar s side, who outclassed close rivals Ismaili last week, could close the gap with leaders Ahly to just four points with another win.
In Cairo, Ismaili face Arab Contractors in an attempt to make up for their disappointing home defeat to Petrojet.
ENPPI and Military Production clash in a tight mid-table contest, while relegation candidates Asyut Petroleum host Police Union.
