Head coach Marcelo Coler addressed several key points after Al Ahly’s hard-fought 1-0 victory over Ceramica Cleopatra in the semi-final of the NBE Super Cup, including the injury of Mohamed El-Shennawy, the absence of Kahraba, and the upcoming final against Modern Future.
Speaking at the press conference, Coler expressed satisfaction with reaching the Egyptian Super Cup final, describing the match as challenging due to Ceramica’s strength and the team’s participation in several significant games within a short timeframe.
“The players were on time, each fulfilling their duties, contributing to a great match.
We created numerous opportunities that, unfortunately, we couldn’t convert into goals.
The opponent also had dangerous chances, but in the end, our defensive and offensive performance was very good,” Coler commented.
Regarding Modern Future’s qualification against Pyramids, Coler noted the equal caliber of both Pyramids and Modern Future, anticipating a tough final.
He remarked, “The path to the title hasn’t become easier; on the contrary, it might have become more challenging.”
Addressing Kahraba’s absence, Coler explained, “Kahraba played in all the Club World Cup matches, so he needed rest like many other players.
However, I couldn’t rest everyone to avoid impacting the team’s form.
In the final, I will field players with the highest physical readiness.”
Coler also provided insight into El-Shennawy’s situation, stating, “I substituted El-Shennawy to protect him, and I cannot determine the duration of his absence or his availability for the final until he undergoes medical examinations.”
The coach expressed his preparedness for penalty shootouts but emphasized his desire to secure a winning goal before the match’s conclusion, demonstrating confidence in his team’s abilities.
Coler praised Imam Ashour’s performance, particularly when he played on the flank in the second half, citing improved tactical communication.
He concluded by highlighting the differences in the players’ mentalities between Egypt and Europe, emphasizing continuous efforts to enhance the psychological aspect of the game.
