CAF Confederation Cup: Zamalek goalkeeper Mohamed Sobhi apologizes after being sent off against Otoho

Zamalek goalkeeper Mohamed Sobhi has issued an apology to fans following his red card in the second leg of the CAF Confederation Cup quarter-finals against Congolese side Otoho.

The Cairo International Stadium witnessed a 2-1 victory for Zamalek, which, combined with a 1-1 draw in the first leg, secured the team’s place in the semi-finals. Sobhi’s dismissal came in the final five minutes after a heated altercation with an Otoho player.

Taking to Instagram, Sobhi expressed his regret: “Thank God for today’s win and advancing to the semi-finals. I apologise to the great Zamalek fans, the players, and the coaching staff. I never intended to make a mistake.”

He added: “My only concern was that the remaining minutes would pass peacefully, but God’s will be done.”

The red card followed an incident in which Sobhi handled the ball after conceding a goal, sparking a confrontation. He then elbowed an opposing player, prompting a VAR review that led to his sending off.

Following their qualification,  Zamalek are set for a high-stakes encounter against Algerian heavyweights CR Belouizdad in the semifinals of the Confederation Cup.