The Egypt striker, who was supposed to have a test on his troublesome knee in Qatar, was rated doubtful for the continental clash, but has eventually failed to make the squad travelling to Tunisia.

“I couldn’t travel to Qatar for personal reasons, and then I felt uncomfortable during training, so I spoke with the manager and he prefers not to risk me,” Zaki told FilGoal.com.

Zaki has been nursing his knee for three months before making his comeback in the 1-0 first-round win over Kenya’s Ulinzi Stars last month.

Four out

Meanwhile, four players were dropped from the Zamalek roster for the Africain game, while others are expected to join in.

Mohamed Younes, Wagih Abdul-Azim, youngsters Ahmed Katawi and Mahmoud Al-Badri failed to make the squad and are expected to return home soon.

On the other hand, Egypt U-21 duo Omar Gaber and Mohamed Ibrahim are both expected to join the team after returning from international duty.

Hussein Yasser is suspended and Mido ineligible for the competition.