Al Ahly head coach Marcel Koller has his sights set on avenging his team’s recent defeat to Zamalek as they prepare for the highly anticipated Egyptian Super Cup final on October 24, 2024. The showdown comes just a month after Zamalek triumphed over their rivals in the CAF Super Cup, and Koller’s side is eager to turn the tables.
Al Ahly secured their place in the final after a hard-fought 2-1 victory against Ceramica Cleopatra, while Zamalek advanced following a dramatic penalty shootout win over Pyramids FC, after a 1-1 stalemate in regular time.
The stage is now set for yet another clash between Egypt’s two most storied clubs, with both teams hungry for silverware.
Speaking at a post-match press conference, Koller expressed his team’s determination to make amends for their earlier loss.
Al Ahly doesn’t need a psychologist to prepare the players. What we need is for them to give their all,” Koller said. “We have great quality in the squad, and we’re seeing the players focus more on both defense and attack.”
The Swiss coach was clear that the key to success lies in winning individual battles on the pitch.
i’ve spoken to the players multiple times about winning duels, and we’re working on that.
We’re aiming to get the team to a level where they can perform at their best,” he added, highlighting the tactical improvements he’s been instilling.
However, Koller was quick to dismiss the notion that Al Ahly’s previous Super Cup victories at the same stadium would give them an edge.
The fact that Al Ahly has won the Super Cup twice in the same stadium doesn’t guarantee us an advantage over Zamalek,” he said, urging his team not to take anything for granted.
Reflecting on their previous encounter in the CAF Super Cup, Koller admitted the loss on penalties was a bitter pill to swallow.
We were very disappointed after losing the CAF Super Cup to Zamalek, especially since it went to penalties,” he remarked, clearly still frustrated by the outcome.
But this time, Al Ahly is motivated by the desire for redemption.
We want revenge for that loss. The players are aware of this, and they’re eager to make the fans proud,” Koller stated. “I hope the team will be at their best in the Super Cup final, and we aim to win it.”
The highly anticipated final will take place on Thursday, October 24, at 8 PM CET, where both Al Ahly and Zamalek will battle it out for the prestigious Egyptian Super Cup trophy.
With emotions running high and a chance for payback on the line, the match promises to be an electrifying contest.
