Zamalek defender Mohamed Ismail urges focus as club edge closer to Confederation Cup final

Zamalek defender Mohamed Ismail has called for full concentration from his outfit ahead of the decisive second leg against CR Belouizdad in the CAF Confederation Cup semi-final, stressing that qualification is not yet secured despite a crucial 1-0 first-leg victory in Algeria.

The Egyptian defender emphasized the importance of staying focused as the tie now shifts to Cairo, where Zamalek will look to complete the job in front of their home supporters.

Speaking to CAF, Ismail made it clear that the team’s mindset remains cautious and disciplined ahead of the return fixture.

“There is still another leg in Cairo, and Zamalek will play the return match to win and confirm qualification for the final,” he said.

His remarks underline the team’s awareness that a single-goal advantage offers no guarantee in a tightly contested semi-final.

Reflecting on the first leg at the Nelson Mandela Stadium, Algiers, Ismail noted that Zamalek started strongly and controlled key moments before managing the pressure in the second half.

“We were better in the first half, and in the second half we tried to maintain our lead,” he added.

The Egyptian giants took the lead through Juan Bezerra, whose decisive strike proved enough to separate the two sides in a tense encounter.

The match also featured controversy when CR Belouizdad appeared to have equalised through Ihab Belhossini, only for the goal to be disallowed after VAR review confirmed a handball in the build-up.

The decision proved pivotal, preserving Zamalek’s narrow advantage and highlighting the fine margins separating both teams in the semi-final clash.

With everything still to play for, the tie now heads to the return leg scheduled for April 17 at Cairo Stadium. Zamalek will look to capitalize on home advantage as they aim to secure a place in the Confederation Cup final.

Ismail’s message is clear: discipline, focus, and execution will determine whether Zamalek’s narrow lead becomes a ticket to the final—or a missed opportunity.