Al-Masry head coach Nabil Kouki insisted his side’s qualification hopes in the CAF Confederation Cup remain intact, despite suffering defeat to Zamalek in their latest group-stage encounter.
Speaking after the match, Kouki said he was satisfied with his players’ overall performance in the second leg of the group phase, even though the result went in favour of their Egyptian rivals.
He acknowledged that small details ultimately proved decisive in the contest.
The Al-Masry coach pointed to lapses in concentration at key moments as the main reason for the loss, explaining that Zamalek were more precise in how they managed the decisive phases of the game.
“Zamalek was more focused on the details of the match,” Kouki said, adding that “a loss of focus in the final touches, along with poor handling of set pieces, were the main reasons for the defeat.”
Kouki was also keen to recognise the quality of the opposition, describing Zamalek as a “great team” that capitalised effectively on the chances that came their way.
He noted that the ability to convert opportunities was the difference between the two sides on the night.
Despite the setback, the coach underlined that Al-Masry’s campaign is far from over.
He stressed that qualification remains within reach and that the team still controls its own destiny heading into the final fixtures.
“The chances of qualifying are still there and in the team’s hands,” Kouki said, expressing his confidence in his squad’s capacity to respond positively in the remaining matches, “God willing.”
He praised the commitment and effort shown by his players throughout the match, highlighting their determination and work rate.
According to Kouki, the performance deserved a better outcome, but fortune did not favour Al-Masry in several key moments.
The coach concluded by reaffirming his belief that the team will fight until the end of the group stage.
He said Al-Masry would defend their chances “until the very last moments” when they face Zesco United in their final group match.
With two games remaining, Kouki’s message was one of resilience and belief, as Al-Masry look to recover from defeat and keep their Confederation Cup ambitions alive.
