We have no alternative but to win – Zamalek coach Gamal ahead of Belouizdad decider

Zamalek coach Moataz Gamal says his outfit has no option but to beat CR Belouizdad to secure a place in the final of the 2025/26 CAF Confederation Cup.

The Egyptian giants will host their Algerian counterparts in the second leg of the Confederation Cup semi-final, scheduled for Friday at Cairo International Stadium.

Zamalek head into the return leg with a slender advantage after managing a narrow away win over Belouizdad last weekend.

Speaking ahead of the clash, Moataz Gamal affirmed his outfit has no alternative but to win in order to secure a place in the final of the competition.

“Tomorrow’s match will be more difficult for Zamalek because the opponent is required to achieve victory only, and the result in the first leg is deceptive.”

His warning sets the tone for a tense showdown, with Belouizdad expected to push aggressively in search of a comeback. Gamal emphasized that his side cannot afford complacency, insisting qualification remains the only acceptable outcome.

“​We have no alternative but to win in order to secure qualification for the final match. We spoke with the players that the situation will change in the return match with our fans behind us, and we will be playing the match on our home ground. I hope that luck will be on our side and that we will be a part of the final match.”

The backing of the home crowd could prove decisive, and Gamal was quick to underline the unique role Zamalek supporters play in lifting the team’s performance.

“The Zamalek fans are different from any other fans and we rely on them fundamentally. The team’s players only give their all when the fans are present, because they are an incentive for us to perform at our best.”