Hassan will miss the tie against Nzoia Sugar

Hassan's loss is a big blow to the reigning African champions.

The Egyptian, who once held the world record for most international caps, has been one of Africa's best strikers for nigh on two decades.

Nevertheless, Zamalek's coach Carlos Roberto professed not to be too worried.

"Zamalek is an all-round team. We don't depend on particular players," the Brazilian told the Reuters news agency.

Roberto has a convincing basis for his optimism: not only are his side one of the best in Africa, but they hold a three goal lead from the first leg of the two leg tie.

All the same, Roberto is not under-rating his opponents.

"Nzoia gave a good account of themselves in the first leg in Cairo.

"We know they are capable of bouncing back," he said.

The Kenyan debutants did just that in the preliminary round, beating Red Sea of Eritrea on penalties after losing 2-0 in the first leg.

Nzoia's chance to pull of a similar comeback against Africa's reigning champions will be played on Saturday in the western Kenyan town of Mumias.