Ceramica Cleopatra goalkeeper and captain Mohamed Bassam says his side used their 1-1 draw with Al Ahly as a statement performance to silence doubts about the team’s integrity.
The Premier League encounter, played on Tuesday evening at the Arab Contractors Stadium, saw Cleopatra hold their more decorated opponents to a draw in a closely contested opening-round fixture.
Speaking after the match on ON Sport, Bassam revealed the squad had been under intense pressure following pre-match criticism. He insisted the players were determined to respond on the pitch.
“I was waiting for a positive result so I could speak to the media,” he said. “Everyone in the team felt the pressure because of what was said before the match.”
The goalkeeper strongly rejected suggestions questioning the players’ professionalism, describing the comments as unfair and damaging to morale.
“These are completely unhealthy things. Some people were questioning the integrity of the players who are working tirelessly,” he added. “As captain, how can I face my teammates knowing there are doubts about our focus?”
Bassam also praised the team’s structure and coaching setup under Ali Maher, emphasizing that Ceramica Cleopatra remains a competitive side with ambitions beyond just participation.
“We are a respectable and big team. We aim to qualify for the Confederation Cup and why not compete for the league title?” he said. “We wanted to send a message through this match.”
He concluded by highlighting the team’s determination and unity, stressing that every player gave their all on the pitch.
“The players showed character. We said before the game that we were playing for our dignity and reputation. No one held back. We fought to respond to those who doubted us.”
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