CAF Confederation Cup: Moatamed Gamal backs Zamalek to stage final comeback against USM Alger

Zamalek SC will attempt to secure a record-equalling third CAF Confederation Cup title when they host USM Alger in the second leg of the final at Cairo International Stadium on Saturday.

The Egyptian side head into the decisive clash trailing 1-0 on aggregate after suffering a narrow defeat in the first leg in Algiers last weekend.

A dramatic stoppage-time penalty converted by Ahmed Khaldi handed the Algerian outfit the advantage ahead of the return fixture in Cairo.

Despite the setback, Zamalek assistant coach Moatamed Gamal remains optimistic about his side’s chances of overturning the deficit and lifting the continental trophy.

“There is a first half that has ended in Algeria, and there is still another half in Cairo. We have strong motivation to make up for this and win the title. We had hoped at least to come away with a goalless draw,” Gamal said.

“The players did what they had to do on the pitch. We defended well and had more chances to score by relying on transitions. We will fight until the last minute to win and claim the TotalEnergies CAF Confederation Cup title…

“Zamalek have big players and they are up to the responsibility. We will make every possible effort in the return leg to win and lift the continental title,” he added.

The White Knights are expected to rely heavily on home support as they seek to produce another memorable continental comeback in front of their fans.

USM Alger, meanwhile, travel to Egypt carrying a slender advantage and hoping to maintain their composure under pressure to secure continental glory away from home.