Zamalek coach Moataz Gamal declares readiness for CR Belouizdad showdown

Head coach of Zamalek Moataz Gamal has acknowledged the magnitude of the challenge awaiting his outfit but insists they are fully prepared to rise to the occasion against CR Belouizdad in the semi-finals of the CAF Confederation Cup.

Zamalek travel to Algeria for the first leg clash set for Friday night at the Nelson Mandela Stadium, with kickoff scheduled for 9 pm.

With a place in the final at stake, Gamal made it clear that his team’s immediate objective is to secure a positive result that will ease the pressure ahead of the return leg in Cairo.

“We are aware of the difficulty of the match, which is played over two legs,” Gamal said during the pre-match press conference. “Our goal is to achieve a positive result in Algeria that will make things easier for us in Cairo.”

The Zamalek boss showed respect for the Algerian outfit, emphasizing that their presence in the semi-finals is no coincidence. He noted that both teams have done their homework and are well aware of each other’s strengths and tactical approaches.

“Belouizdad did not reach this stage by chance. They have certainly studied us just as we have studied them. Both teams are like an open book to each other,” he explained.

Gamal also highlighted the challenge posed by Belouizdad’s passionate home support and balanced style of play, while suggesting that recent changes in their technical staff could further motivate the hosts.

“We will face a strong team with a large fan base. They play in a balanced way, and the coaching changes may give them extra motivation,” he added.

Despite the tough test ahead, the Zamalek coach expressed confidence in his squad’s experience and readiness. He revealed that, for the first time in a while, the team has a fully fit roster—an important boost at such a critical stage of the competition.

“This is the first time we have a complete squad. All the players are ready physically and technically, and they are eager to give their best,” Gamal said.

He also dismissed any concerns regarding the goalkeeping department, pointing to the depth and quality available.

“Zamalek has three international goalkeepers. There is no problem in this position at all,” he stressed.

Gamal further underlined Zamalek’s attacking strength, noting their consistent scoring record both domestically and in Africa. However, he cautioned that knockout matches demand a different level of focus and precision.

“We are one of the best scoring teams in the Egyptian League and the Confederation Cup. But semi-final matches are different—they are difficult to recover in compared to the group stage,” he said.

The coach also framed the match within a broader context, reminding his players of the responsibility they carry as Egypt’s sole representative remaining in continental competitions.

“The pressure we faced has given us motivation. We don’t want to leave this tournament—we are playing to win it,” he declared.

Zamalek booked their place in the semi-finals after edging AS Otohô 3-2 on aggregate, while Belouizdad advanced past Al Masry SC on away goals following two tightly contested draws.

With the return leg scheduled for April 17 at Cairo International Stadium, Friday’s clash in Algeria could prove decisive. For Gamal and his players, the mission is clear—deliver a strong performance, secure an advantage, and take a major step toward continental glory.