Mohamed Hathout hails Kahraba’s influence as Enppi turn crowd pressure into win over Zamalek

Mohamed Hathout has credited Enppi teammate Mahmoud Abdel-Moneim Kahraba as a decisive factor in Enppi’s victory over Zamalek SC, revealing that hostile chants from the stands ultimately fueled the team’s performance.

Speaking in radio interviews, Hathout said the squad approached the match with a strong collective mindset, highlighting Kahraba’s value both on and off the pitch.

He described the forward as a key figure in the dressing room, pointing to his experience with both Al Ahly SC and Zamalek as vital in guiding the team through a high-pressure encounter.

Enppi, he added, thrived on the intensity of the occasion, turning crowd hostility into motivation.

According to Hathout, the players delivered on all fronts—technically, physically, and mentally—to gain the upper hand during the contest.

He also underlined the importance of the squad’s balance, noting that the blend of youth and experience proved crucial. Kahraba’s presence, in particular, helped younger players manage the occasion, especially against a club of Zamalek’s stature.

Reflecting on a tense penalty moment, Hathout admitted he felt immense pressure, likening it to Mohamed Salah’s decisive spot-kick in the 2018 World Cup qualifiers, where the weight of expectations rested on a single strike.

Looking beyond the match, Hathout insisted the league title race remains wide open.

He pointed to Al Ahly SC’s resurgence following their win over Smouha, warning that competition with Zamalek and Pyramids FC remains intense.

He concluded by reaffirming Enppi’s ambitions, stressing that the team is determined to secure the highest possible finish this season while keeping alive its hopes of qualifying for continental competition.