CAF Confederation Cup: Zamalek captain Omar Gaber warns of tough USM Alger test ahead of final first leg

Zamalek skipper Omar Gaber has underlined the challenge awaiting his side as they prepare to face USM Alger in the first leg of the CAF Confederation Cup final on Saturday, May 9, at the 5 July Stadium in Algiers.

Speaking at the pre-match press conference, Gaber began by offering condolences to teammate Mohamed Shehata following the passing of his father, extending the club’s sympathy during a difficult moment for the midfielder.

Turning his attention to the final, the Zamalek captain acknowledged the significance of the occasion and the quality of their opponents.

“Everyone is waiting for the Confederation Cup final. We were fortunate to play the semi-final in Algeria as well against CR Belouizdad,” he said, reflecting on the team’s previous experience in North Africa.

Gaber stressed that the encounter carries multiple tactical and psychological demands, with Zamalek aiming to secure a strong result away from home before the decisive second leg in Cairo.

“The USM Alger match has many considerations. Our goal is to achieve a positive result in the first leg before returning to Cairo,” he explained.

He also praised the Algerian side, insisting their place in the final is fully deserved.

“USM Alger are a strong and respectable opponent. They did not reach the final by coincidence. They play modern football, and we have studied them well. They have quality players,” Gaber noted.

However, he reiterated Zamalek’s ambition to lift the trophy, pointing to the advantage of playing the return leg on home soil.

“Zamalek always enters competitions to win titles. Playing the second leg in Cairo gives us an advantage, but we must first handle the job in Algeria,” he added.

Gaber also highlighted the squad’s ability to manage pressure across competitions, saying the team remains focused despite balancing domestic and continental commitments.

“We discuss both the Confederation Cup and the league internally, but we separate them. Right now, our full focus is on the Confederation Cup,” he said.

Looking ahead to the atmosphere in Algiers, the Zamalek captain dismissed concerns over pressure, insisting the team is prepared for a hostile environment.

“The pitch at the 5 July Stadium is good, and we are used to playing under pressure from fans. This is an important match for this generation to win a continental title,” he concluded.

Zamalek will aim to secure a positive result in the first leg before hosting USM Alger in the return fixture at Cairo Stadium on May 16, where a large home crowd is expected.