Zamalek’s dirty tricks? Egyptian giants frustrate Kaizer Chiefs with major changes to key fixture

Zamalek SC have made two significant alterations for their final CAF Confederation Cup Group D clash against Kaizer Chiefs, introducing new challenges for the Soweto giants side as the group stage reaches its climax.

The Egyptian powerhouse has changed both the date and the venue for the high-stakes encounter. The match, originally set for Sunday, February 15, 2026, will now take place a day earlier on Saturday, February 14.

Furthermore, the game has been moved from the Al-Salam Stadium in Cairo to the Suez Canal Authority Stadium in Ismailia.

Less recovery, long travel for Chiefs

This relocation to Ismailia, approximately 115 kilometers from Cairo, combined with the earlier kick-off, presents a logistical challenge for Kaizer Chiefs. The Soweto giants, already navigating a demanding schedule of 11 matches in 40 days, will now need to depart for Egypt sooner than anticipated to acclimatise.

Bringing the match forward by 24 hours also reduces crucial recovery and preparation time for the team, particularly after their recent elimination from the Nedbank Cup.

Over the weekend, Chiefs’ co-coach Khalil Ben Youssef voiced concerns that the team’s heavy workload was undermining their continental campaign. He revealed that due to fixture congestion and travel, the squad had not conducted a proper training session in nearly three weeks.

What do Amakhosi need on Saturday?

Ben Youssef also highlighted the increased risk of player injuries, which necessitated squad rotation.

“I think Kaizer Chiefs is representing South Africa, so we have to think about the team… If you [the PSL] want to improve and see us win, you have to help us,” he said.

Despite the new obstacles, Amakhosi remain in a favourable position in Group D as they have 10 points, two more than Zamalek, and three better than Al Masry, meaning a draw in Ismailia would be enough to secure the top spot and a place in the quarter-final.