Al-Sayed has been given the nod ahead of Mohamed Abdul-Monsef, who was Zamalek's first-choice goalie last season.

The 31-year-old Al-Sayed has been Zamalek's regular guardian during the past few years but his repeated injuries gave Abdul-Monsef the chance to prove himself.

Sweeper Hani Saied, who has arrived from Ismaili in the close season after an infamous transfer saga, will not start the game.

Zamalek technical staff deemed him unfit for the anticipated encounter.

They also fear that he may be subjected to angry taunts from Ahli fans.

Ahmed Magdi, Mahmoud Fathallah and Wissem El-Abdi will form Zamalek's three-man back-line.

Zamalek's new signing Ayman Abdul-Aziz will partner Ahmed Abdul-Raouf in the heart of the team's midfield.

Mohamed Aboul-Ella will be given an advanced role to support attacking duo Junior Agogo and Gamal Hamza.

Mohamed Abdullah and Osama Hassan will play on the flanks.