Angolan winger Chico Banza has arrived in Cairo to join Zamalek’s training camp ahead of Sunday’s Egyptian Premier League derby against Al Ahly at Cairo International Stadium.
The Zamalek player returned from Angola after representing his country in Africa Cup of Nations qualifying matches against Egypt and Malawi. He is expected to take part in the club’s training session as preparations continue for one of the most anticipated fixtures on the domestic football calendar.
A source at Zamalek confirmed Banza’s arrival, adding that the winger would join his team-mates at their camp in Egypt’s New Administrative Capital ahead of the meeting with their Cairo rivals.
The match will take place on Sunday at Cairo International Stadium as part of the sixth round of the Egyptian Premier League.
Zamalek began a closed training camp in the New Administrative Capital last Tuesday, allowing the squad to focus on preparations for the derby away from outside distractions.
Banza’s return provides the club with another option as the coaching staff prepare their squad for the encounter. His involvement in the upcoming training session will allow him to rejoin the group after his international commitments.
Banza returns after international duty
Banza had been away from the club while representing Angola in their Africa Cup of Nations qualifying fixtures against Egypt and Malawi.
Following the completion of those matches, the winger travelled back to Cairo and is now expected to resume training with Zamalek.
His arrival comes as the Egyptian side continue their preparations for the high-profile meeting with Al Ahly, with both clubs seeking to make their mark in the league campaign.
The source’s confirmation of Banza’s return means he is back with the squad ahead of Sunday’s fixture. His participation in training will be an important part of the team’s preparations as the coaching staff assess their available players.
Zamalek have been working in a closed camp since Tuesday, with the arrangement intended to keep the squad focused on the challenge ahead. The club are using the period to prepare for the derby and make their final preparations before matchday.
Zamalek prepare for Sunday’s Cairo derby
The meeting with Al Ahly is scheduled for Sunday at Cairo International Stadium in the sixth round of the Premier League.
The fixture is a major date in the Egyptian football calendar, bringing together two of the country’s biggest clubs. Zamalek’s preparations have included the ongoing training camp in the New Administrative Capital, where the players are concentrating on the upcoming match.
Banza’s return from international duty adds to the options available to the team as they approach the contest. The Angolan winger is due to train with his colleagues, having completed his commitments with the national side.
With the derby drawing closer, Zamalek will continue their preparations at the camp before facing Al Ahly on Sunday. The club’s immediate focus is on ensuring the squad is ready for the sixth-round fixture, while Banza looks to rejoin the group after his time away with Angola.
