CAF Confederation Cup: Gamal Moatemed urges caution as Zamalek host CR Belouizdad in return leg

Zamalek head coach Gamal Moatemed has underlined the need for focus and discipline ahead of his side’s CAF Confederation Cup second-leg clash against CR Belouizdad, stressing that qualification remains far from guaranteed despite their position in the tie.

Speaking in the buildup to Friday evening’s encounter at the Cairo International Stadium, Moatemed described the fixture as the defining half of the contest, warning against any sense of complacency within his squad.

“Zamalek has finished the first half of the confrontation, and there is the second and more important half in Egypt,” he said. “We hope for success and for the team to qualify for the final match.”

He acknowledged the challenge posed by the Algerian side, praising their tactical organisation and modern style of play.

“The return match will be difficult, and Belouizdad is a team that plays modern football, and their presence in the semifinal was not by chance,” he added.

Moatemed also cautioned that the current advantage should not be misread, insisting the tie is still open and finely balanced heading into the decisive leg.

“The result is deceptive, and Zamalek has not secured qualification,” he said. “The players are fully focused on securing it in the return leg.”

The Cairo-based giants now turn their attention to delivering a disciplined performance on home soil, with a place in the final on the line against the Algerian side, CR Belouizdad.