CAF Confederation Cup: We struggled against Otoho despite the win – Zamalek coach Moataz Gamal

Zamalek coach Moataz Gamal admitted that his side struggled with focus and decision-making in their 2-1 victory over Congo-Brazzaville champions Otoho on Sunday, in the second leg of the CAF Confederation Cup quarter-finals at Cairo International Stadium.

Despite the challenges, the win secured Zamalek’s place in the semi-finals, where they will face Algeria’s CR Belouizdad, following a 1-1 draw in the first leg.

Speaking at the post-match press conference, Gamal stressed that the team had made the match harder than necessary.

“It was possible that we could have conceded and been eliminated. At that point, apologies would not have helped,” he said, urging players to learn from their mistakes to avoid repeating them.

The technical director also expressed his gratitude to the club’s supporters. “I cannot thank the Zamalek fans enough. Without their presence and support today, the team might not have advanced,” he said.

Addressing the goalkeeper situation, Gamal revealed that he had never previously trained any player as a goalkeeper.

“This was a mistake, and I do not want to repeat it. After Mohamed Sobhi was sent off, I asked the players who was most suitable, and Saif Al-Jaziri stepped in,” he explained.

Gamal also acknowledged that complacency affected the team after taking a two-goal lead.

“Despite my warnings, the players became relatively complacent. I had encouraged them to score more goals, but we must work on converting opportunities more effectively,” he added, noting that Sobhi will face disciplinary measures following his red card.

On player availability, the coach confirmed that Mohamed Awad’s issue had been resolved, and the goalkeeper will resume normal training once the team returns from rest.

“We need all players at full strength for the challenges ahead,” Gamal said.

The coach reflected on other aspects of the game, including the impact of national team roster announcements on excluded players.

“We spoke with them before the match, and I hope Zamalek can go as far as possible in the tournament, especially after Egyptian teams’ recent exits from African competitions,” he said.

Tactically, Gamal highlighted the performance of Oday Al-Dabbagh and Bezerra, who alternated flanks during the match. “

Al-Dabbagh scored in the first leg from the right, and I relied on him there again, while Bezerra played on the left. They switched positions fluidly on the field,” he concluded.

Following their qualification,  Zamalek are set for a high-stakes encounter against Algerian heavyweights CR Belouizdad in the semifinals of the Confederation Cup.