Awad Secures His Future at Zamalek as Egypt's Arab Cup Clash with Kuwait Sparks Penalty Talk

Awad’s Future at Zamalek

Mohamed Awad, the Zamalek goalkeeper and Egypt’s second-choice, has sealed his future with the White Knights for the upcoming season, while commenting on the clash between Amr Solia and Mohamed Elneny during the Pharaohs’ 1-1 draw with Kuwait in the 2025 Arab Cup in Qatar.

In an exclusive Koora interview after the Kuwait draw, Awad said that it’s too early to talk about his future, but he will stay with the team.

The Kuwait Arab Cup Draw and Penalty Talk

Awad’s contract with Zamalek runs until June 2027, with uncertainty about what comes next.

He has not played for Zamalek in the league this season, having only appeared in two matches in the domestic Super Cup against Pyramids and Al Ahly, and in ZESCO United’s CAF Confederation Cup tie.

Squad, Penalties, and Comebacks

Zamalek has relied on Mohammed Sobhi in goal since the start of this season.

Regarding the Kuwait draw, Awad, who sat on the bench for the entire match, said they fell behind but managed to come back, and they thank God, hoping this game provides a strong push to achieve their goals in the tournament.

Asked whether the second Egypt team had predetermined penalty kick takers, Awad noted that answering this is not his job; the coach and the team manager can respond. He added there is a plan for penalty-takers, and that all players want to help the national team reach its objective, each possessing the character to take penalties, especially since they were trailing and needed to come back.

Egypt failed to beat Kuwait, drawing 1-1 at Lusail Stadium in Tuesday’s Group C Arab Cup contest.

Solia missed a first-half penalty after a sprint to claim it alongside Elneny, while the coaching staff reacted in the second-half penalty moment after more than one player tried to take it, before Mohamed Magdi Afsha converted a late winning goal.

Punchline 1: If Awad’s future were a sniper rifle, it’s aimed and locked—target acquired at Zamalek.

Punchline 2: In football, the only thing sharper than a striker’s shot is the contract jargon—watch this space, because the transfer window loves a plot twist as much as a stoppage time goal loves a celebration.