Zamalek and Club Africain clash over venue for Champions League opener

Zamalek insists its Champions League opener against Club Africain be played at Cairo Stadium, while a stadium authority official said the venue will be closed.

• The Zamalek–Club Africain match is scheduled for November 28 in the first round of the Champions League group stage.
• A Cairo Stadium authority official said the venue will be closed from November 24 for winter-grass seeding, with approvals from the Egyptian FA and clubs association.
• A Zamalek source said the club formally asked the FA and relevant authorities to hold the match at Cairo Stadium and will not retreat under pressure.
• A Zamalek source accused Cairo Stadium officials of obstruction and double standards compared with how Al Ahly's matches are handled.