Ferreira’s blunt verdict: Sobhi over Awad, Banza’s off-field issues, and a Zamalek climb toward CAF glory

Goalkeeper showdown: Sobhi vs Awad

In a Thursday press conference, Zamalek’s Belgian boss Yannick Ferreira spoke about the team’s current issues and future plans, sharing frank insights on personnel and discipline.

Ferreira opened with a technical assessment of the goalkeepers, explicitly noting that Mohamed Sobhi outperforms Mohamed Awad in several key areas, including handling crosses and distributing with both feet. He stressed that the choice of the first-choice goalkeeper goes beyond shot-stopping and includes build-up play and aerial control inside the box, skills that are increasingly valued in modern football.

He emphasized that the competition between Sobhi and Awad is healthy and that Awad handles the situation with full professionalism, denying any tension with the former starter: “Despite everything, Mohamed Awad hasn’t talked about feeling upset; on the contrary.”

Banza and the off-field factor

Ferreira then turned to striker Chico Banza, who has recently been out of the starting lineup, clarifying that his tactical decisions take into account not only on-field performance but also disciplinary and personal factors outside the pitch.

“Regarding Chico Banza, there have been many off-field situations, and we spoke to him about these matters,” Ferreira said, signaling that behavior off the field can influence selection just as much as goals or assists.

He added that the two forwards currently seen as in best form-and-availability are Adam Kaid and Ahmed Sharif, while the search for consistent striking options continues.

Realism over promises

In closing, Ferreira revisited his early candor about guarantees. He reminded reporters that he cannot promise the fans a handful of trophies, arguing that football does not tolerate such absolute assurances: “On my first day in Cairo, I said I cannot promise everyone the titles because I am clear and straightforward.” He underlined that realism should guide interactions with supporters and the media, and that titles require sustained effort and hard work—the mark of a genuine coach—adding, “No manager in the world can promise everyone the trophies.”

Current form and a continental test

The coach acknowledged a rough patch for Zamalek, who have failed to win their last three league games—drawing with Al Gouna and Al Mahalla, and losing to archrivals Al Ahly. The focus now shifts to the CAF Confederation Cup, with a first-leg clash against the Somali side Dikidaa scheduled for Cairo’s stadium on Saturday, ahead of the return leg on Oct 24 at the same venue.

For the tie, CAF appointed an Ethiopian refereeing team, led by center referee Manohe Lelidetsadik, with assistants and a fourth official named, while Sudanese and Algerian observers were also assigned. The teams’ histories in African competition loom large: Zamalek previously triumphed in 2019 against Renaissance de Berkan (Berkan Moroccan club) and again in 2024, each time navigating tricky away goals and aggregate results. The club’s past five CAF Champions League titles also frame expectations for a squad that seeks to restore continental glory.

As the team plans its approach, Ferreira’s measured tone and emphasis on discipline, form, and realistic goals illustrate a leadership style that prioritizes consistency over sensational promises. The road to silverware remains long, but the steps outlined by the coach map a clear path for an ambitious club.

Humor break (sniper-style): If honesty were a goalkeeper, Ferreira would save every claim with room to spare—though the ball still has a mind of its own. And remember: in football, the only thing more offside than Banza’s calendar is the club’s calendar app trying to schedule four meetings in a row with optimized snacks.