Zamalek head coach, José Gomes, has set his sights on securing a crucial victory against rivals Al Ahly in the CAF Super Cup, emphasizing his team’s preparedness for the challenge. The two Egyptian football giants are set to face off in Saudi Arabia on Friday, with both teams eager to claim the continental title.
“We are up against a big team with many great players, but we are also a big team with quality players,” Gomes stated, speaking to local media outlet KingFut.
He expressed confidence in his squad, noting the rigorous preparation they’ve undergone ahead of the highly anticipated clash.
“Our preparation is focused on winning, and everyone is ready, whether in the starting lineup or on the bench.
We are a better team than last season,” he continued, underscoring the improvements made by his side over the past year.
“Each player knows their role.
Every team has its own style, and the small details will decide the game.
I am happy to be here in Saudi Arabia.”
Gomes also addressed concerns regarding the left-back position, a critical area of focus ahead of the showdown.
With options available to him, he appeared confident in Zamalek’s ability to manage Al Ahly’s attacking threats.
“We can use Omar Gaber or any other player capable of playing on the left.
Our goal is to neutralize Al Ahly’s dangerous right side,” he said.
The rivalry between Zamalek and Al Ahly is one of the fiercest in African football, and the two sides met in the Egypt Cup final last season, with Al Ahly coming out on top.
Reflecting on that loss, Gomes highlighted the importance of the CAF Super Cup as a potential turning point for his team.
“We lost the Egypt Cup final to Al Ahly last season, so winning the CAF Super Cup would boost our confidence heading into a long season.”
Zamalek’s captain, Omar Gaber, also spoke about the upcoming fixture, sharing his optimism for the match.
He acknowledged the tough start to the season but remained hopeful that Zamalek would emerge victorious.
“It’s a tough start to the season, and the advantage will go to the team with the better luck on the day.
We hope that will be us,” Gaber said.
As the team’s leader, Gaber emphasized the significance of winning the title, not just for the team, but for the passionate fanbase that supports Zamalek.
“We want to make our fans proud by winning the title. Zamalek fans are special, whether in Egypt or abroad,” he added.
Both teams are entering the match with high expectations, but Zamalek’s recent improvements, combined with their determination to bounce back from last season’s setbacks, have given the team a renewed sense of focus.
Gomes’ strategy and Gaber’s leadership will be crucial as they attempt to dethrone their Cairo rivals and lift the CAF Super Cup trophy.
With everything to play for, Friday’s match is set to be a thrilling encounter between two of Africa’s football powerhouses, and all eyes will be on Saudi Arabia to see who will emerge victorious.
