Zamalek were trailing against Wadi Degla in the last 16 but overturned the deficit into a 4-1 victory and had to face an even tougher challenge versus Gouna, who were 2-nil up before losing 3-2.

“We have to be the first to score because there is no room for repeating the scenario of the last two games against Hodoud,” Egypt skipper Hassan told Zamalek’s website.

“We have to be more focused against Hodoud and even though we have many absentees, we can deal with that and reach the final.”

Zamalek will be without in-form striker Ahmed Gaafar and key midfielder Ibrahim Salah due to suspension, while Hani Saied was injured in training.