Zamalek Star's Father Dies Hours Before Final

Egyptian club Zamalek has been struck by tragedy hours before the first leg of the CAF Confederation Cup final. The club announced the death of Mohamed Shehata's father, a devastating blow to the midfielder and the squad as they prepare to face Algeria's USM Alger.

Zamalek will play the away leg in Algiers on Saturday. The club's board of directors, led by Hussein Labib, issued an official statement mourning the loss and offering condolences to the player, wishing him strength and solace.

The sudden news has thrown the team's preparations into disarray. The coaching staff, under manager Mo'tamed Gamal, will decide on Shehata's participation in the coming hours. The decision hinges on consultations with the player: he may either remain with the squad in Algeria for the match or return to his hometown of Minya Governorate to attend his father's funeral.

Shehata has been a regular starter for Zamalek this season. The return leg of the final is scheduled for May 16 at Cairo Stadium.