Tarek El-Ashry, the head coach of Alexandria’s Union, expressed his disappointment after the team’s loss to Smouha with a score of two goals to none, marking the third round of the Egyptian Premier League.
El-Ashry acknowledged that the defeat came at an opportune time, especially after securing the team’s place in the league’s quarterfinals.
He emphasized that the loss serves as a wake-up call for the players, reminding them that football rewards those who give their best and punishes those who slack off on the field.
During the post-match press conference, El-Ashry commented on the players’ performance, stating that most of them were below par, displaying a level that did not meet the standards set in previous matches.
He lamented the team’s toothless attack and acknowledged the impact of injuries and absences on the squad, expressing his desire for a positive outcome despite the challenges.
Addressing the recurring issue of injuries within the team, El-Ashry mentioned plans to consult with the medical staff to identify the root causes of the consecutive injuries affecting the squad, with recent casualties including Bekammy and Karim El-Deeb, both of whom have added to the team’s offensive concerns.
Looking ahead to the crucial match against Enppi next week, El-Ashry stressed the importance of the upcoming fixture in determining the team’s journey in the league.
He mentioned granting the players a one-day break while emphasizing the need for serious preparations for the Enppi encounter, set to take place at the Alexandria Stadium with the support of the passionate home crowd.
Despite the defeat, El-Ashry highlighted a few positives from the game, singling out the performances of Mahmoud Sotohy and Adham Alaa as noteworthy gains.
He concluded by urging the fans to rally behind the team in the next match, emphasizing the significance of their support as a crucial factor in overcoming Enppi and advancing beyond the quarterfinals.
