Zamalek sets date for Chico Banza's return from Angola in preparation for the Cairo Derby.
Zamalek officials have set October 8 as the deadline for the return of Angolan player Chico Banza to Cairo, after his participation with the national team, to join the team's training in preparation for the clash against Al Ahly in the Egyptian Premier League.
Chico Banza is participating with the Angola national team in the qualifiers for the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations, where the Angolan team will face Malawi on October 6, and the player is expected to return to Cairo after completing his international duty.
Chico Banza's Absence from ZED Match in Cairo Cup
It has been confirmed that Chico Banza will miss Zamalek's match against ZED, scheduled for October 7, in the first round of the group stage of the Cairo Cup, due to his commitment to the national team match 24 hours before the game, which prevents him from participating.
Chico Banza is expected to join Zamalek's training as soon as he returns to Cairo on October 8, where he will undergo a training program to prepare him physically and technically after returning from international duty, before his participation in the clash is determined.
Zamalek is preparing to face Al Ahly on October 11, as part of the sixth round of the Egyptian Premier League, and the coaching staff aims to recover all international players and prepare them for the match, given the importance of the clash and the team's desire to compete at full strength.
Chico Banza's return comes just three days before the clash, prompting the coaching staff to closely monitor his physical condition after his participation with the Angola national team and to assess his ability to participate against Al Ahly based on his fitness level.
