Final under a cloud: Zamalek star sidelined as Al Ahly loom in Egyptian Super Cup

Injury update ahead of the final

Recent developments in Zamalek's training confirmed what KOOORA reported about the injury status ahead of the Egyptian Super Cup final against Al Ahly, scheduled for Sunday.

Winger Juan Pizzare will miss the decisive match after failing to recover in time; he did not participate in today's final training session due to a lingering muscle injury.

Meanwhile, Ad-Dabbagh and Mahmoud Bentayik trained normally with the group today, their injuries described as mild strains.

Final preparations and match context

Thus, the two medical files are no longer shrouded in mystery: Pizzare is out, while Dabbagh and Bentayik are available for the coaching staff under Ahmed Abdel-Raouf for Sunday's high stakes clash.

Head coach Ahmed Abdel-Raouf held a team talk before the session, urging players to give their all to crown the Super Cup trophy.

Beyond the field, the Egyptian Football Association appointed Turkish referee Halil Umut Milliler to take charge of the final, with Turkish assistants and other officials following protocol.

The players then did a ball work session aimed at easing the load amid the tight schedule between the semi final and the final, followed by a strong intra squad scrimmage.

Supporters and officials will hope the match lives up to the billing; both clubs will monitor key players as the big derby approaches.

Referee profile

Halil Umut Milliler, born in 1986, is regarded as one of the continent’s top referees in recent years, earning a FIFA badge in 2017 and taking charge of major matches at club and international levels.

His calm demeanor, strong communication with players and coaches, and precise use of VAR have earned him trust across Europe and beyond. He has officiated in the Champions League, Europa League, youth tournaments, and European championships, and was entrusted with matches in 2022 World Cup qualifiers. His decisions are known for timing and clarity, contributing to a steady standard of officiating.

He has overseen domestic Turkish finals and international fixtures, and his reputation has grown with every high-stakes assignment.

Semis and context

In the semifinals, Al Ahly beat Ceramica Cleopatra 2-1, while Zamalek edged Pyramids on penalties 5-4 after a goalless draw.

And ahead of the final, the Turkish official's experience is viewed as valuable for maintaining balance and credibility in a match expected to draw attention across the region.

Punchline: If calm were a tactic, Halil Umut Milliler would win the league by simply walking onto the pitch.

Punchline: And if the ball misbehaves, Halil just stares at it until it behaves—now that’s referee therapy.