Zamalek moved swiftly on from their African Confederation Cup victory over Al Masry as head coach Moataz Gamal ordered his players back into training, underlining the club’s focus on a demanding domestic and continental schedule.
Despite a 2-1 win on Sunday that lifted Zamalek to the top of their Confederation Cup group, the technical staff opted against granting the squad a rest.
Instead, preparations began immediately for the next challenge, with training set to resume on Monday at the Military Academy Stadium.
The decision reflects the pressure of a congested calendar, with Zamalek due to face Ismailia Electricity in the 17th round of the Egyptian Premier League on Wednesday.
The fixture, scheduled for an 8pm kick-off, is seen as crucial as the club looks to strengthen its position in the domestic standings.
Zamalek’s latest continental success came at the Suez Stadium, where they edged Al Masry in a closely contested Group Stage encounter.
The victory took Zamalek’s points tally to eight after four rounds, placing them at the summit of their group and tightening the race for qualification to the knockout phase.
Al Masry remain close behind on seven points, level with South Africa’s Kaiser Chiefs, while Zesco are yet to register a point.
With the group finely balanced, Zamalek’s coaching staff appear determined to maintain momentum rather than allow complacency to set in following the weekend’s result.
Attention, however, now turns firmly to league duties.
Zamalek currently sit fourth in the Egyptian Premier League with 25 points, trailing leaders Ceramica Cleopatra by seven points.
Ceramica Cleopatra, though, have played two more matches, a factor that leaves Zamalek with room to close the gap if they can string together positive results.
The upcoming clash with Ismailia Electricity is therefore seen as an opportunity to apply pressure at the top end of the table while keeping pace with rivals.
By insisting on an immediate return to training, Moataz Gamal has sent a clear message about priorities and expectations within the squad.
As the season reaches a decisive phase, Zamalek find themselves balancing ambitions on two fronts.
Their position at the top of the Confederation Cup group offers encouragement, but consistency in the league remains essential.
With no pause after victory, the club’s approach suggests an understanding that success will be defined not by individual results, but by sustained performance across competitions.
