Zamalek’s focus has shifted to their looming CAF Confederation Cup clash with Kaizer Chiefs following a hard-fought 1-0 win over Smouha in the Egyptian Premier League, according to assistant coach Ibrahim Salah.
The victory on Wednesday evening lifted the White Knights to second place, four points behind league leaders Ceramica Cleopatra, providing a timely boost ahead of what could be a decisive continental showdown.
Zamalek sit second in their Confederation Cup group, trailing Kaizer Chiefs by two points. A win in Saturday’s encounter would secure their place in the quarter-finals.
Speaking to Mobtada, Salah expressed satisfaction with his side’s performance against Smouha while acknowledging the challenges posed by the South African outfit.
“We are now preparing for Saturday’s decisive Confederation Cup match against Kaizer Chiefs,” Salah said.
“After that, we will face Ceramica Cleopatra in the Egypt Cup, although we have reservations about the timing of that fixture,” he added.
Salah added that the squad is ready to rise to the occasion and play for their supporters, noting that some players, including versatile midfielder Omar Gaber, were rested to ensure full fitness for the high-stakes clash.
“We decided to rest some players today, such as Omar Gaber, to ensure he is fully prepared for the upcoming match against the South Africans side,” he concluded.
