Zamalek coach Moataz Gamal apologises to fans after Al-Ahly derby defeat

Zamalek coach Moataz Gamal has apologised to the club’s supporters after his side suffered a 2-0 defeat by arch-rivals Al-Ahly in the Egyptian Premier League.

The defeat came in the sixth round of the 2026-27 season and left Zamalek third in the standings, three points behind leaders Al-Ahly.

Speaking at his post-match press conference, Gamal admitted that Zamalek were not at their best in the first half but insisted that his team improved after the break.

He said the White Knights were unfortunate to concede the opening goal, which came after a shot deflected off one of their players and changed direction.

Zamalek attempted to find an equaliser before half-time but were unable to break down their opponents.

Gamal said his team showed greater attacking intent in the second half, creating several opportunities to get back into the contest, but failed to convert their chances before Al-Ahly scored a second goal to put the result beyond their reach.

The Zamalek coach also questioned the officiating, claiming his side should have been awarded two penalties during the derby.

He explained that injuries, illness and other absences had forced the technical team to adjust its approach for the match.

Striker Adi Al-Dabbagh was reportedly unwell after returning to the squad, while Adam Kayed suffered a shoulder injury during the warm-up, further complicating Zamalek’s preparations.

Gamal also defended his decision to include Ahmed Sherif in the starting line-up, explaining that the forward’s pace was intended to trouble the Al-Ahly defence.

He said Sherif’s runs provided one of Zamalek’s attacking threats during the first half as the team attempted to respond to falling behind.

The coach admitted, however, that both goals conceded by his side resulted from avoidable mistakes.

He said the technical staff would work to address those shortcomings in training to prevent similar errors in upcoming fixtures.

Gamal offered an apology to Zamalek’s supporters, saying he had hoped to give them a victory in one of Egyptian football’s biggest rivalries.

He insisted that the players had given their best despite the disappointing result and urged the team to move on quickly.

Zamalek must now turn their attention to their next challenge against Rwanda’s Army in the African Champions League, with Gamal stressing the importance of securing a positive result in the first leg to keep their continental ambitions on course.

He added that the club was accustomed to overcoming difficult circumstances and expressed confidence that the team could respond to the setback.

Al-Ahly secured the derby victory through goals from Mohamed Hany and Algerian forward Moncef Bekar.

The result took Al-Ahly to 16 points and sole possession of the top spot in the Egyptian Premier League table.

Zamalek remain on 13 points in third place, behind Pyramids, who have 15 points.