White Knights on the Hunt: Zamalek Ready to Chase Egyptian Super Cup Glory vs. Pyramids

Match Preview

Mohamed Aweid, the seasoned Zamalek goalkeeper, confirmed the White Knights are set for the Egyptian Super Cup semifinal against Pyramids, scheduled for Thursday in Abu Dhabi at the Al Nahyan Stadium. Aweid stressed that the squad has grown accustomed to challenging conditions and that their top objective remains lifting the trophy for the club and its loyal supporters.

Speaking ahead of the marquee clash that will take place in the United Arab Emirates, Aweid highlighted that they would face a big team but reiterated their readiness to handle adversity. He voiced optimism that the trophy could stay with the White Knights, counting on the fans’ backing to boost the team on the night.

“We are facing a major side, yet we’re used to tough conditions,” Aweid said. “God willing, our eyes are on the trophy, and we hope it comes to us. We also look forward to the fans backing us tomorrow.”

He also reassured fans about the harmony within the goalkeeping cadre, noting that the bond among the keepers is excellent and that any player who takes the field will shoulder the responsibility with a shared goal: to return home with the trophy.

Dealing with Absences

When discussing the squad’s depth, Aweid admitted that injuries and suspensions have hit the squad hard. He referenced notable absences such as Nabil Emad Donja, Nasser Monsi, and Juan Bizera as “important gaps,” but stressed that any player donning the Zamalek jersey would rise to the occasion and shoulder the team’s responsibilities.

He expressed confidence that the players stepping onto the field to represent the club in the Super Cup would be men firmly up to the challenge, reiterating a shared conviction to bring the trophy back to Cairo.

Aweid also offered encouragement to the newcomers, describing them as “big players” who add valuable depth to the squad and wish them success in winning their first title with Zamalek.

He wrapped up his message to the White Army by reminding the fans that their backing can make a real difference in every competition and that the team will deliver a strong performance and a trophy-worthy campaign, God willing.

Omar Gaber: Zamalek Always the Contenders

In parallel, captain Omar Gaber stressed the importance of the match, insisting that Zamalek “is always the favorite” against teams of this stature. He highlighted the need for a performance that matches the club’s storied history, with fan support acting as the real fuel behind their confidence, especially after facing tougher periods in the past.

Gaber praised the coaching staff as “a club-aligned unit that cares about both fans and responsibilities,” noting that the squad features players of the highest calibre across all positions. He finished by urging focus and collective effort to seize the title in the coming days.

Two New Figures to Strengthen the Technical Setup

Amidst the build-up, the Zamalek board, led by Chairman Hussein Labil, in coordination with Sporting Director John Edward, announced the appointment of a two-person Portuguese duo. Vitor Pereira was named as the goalkeeping coach, with Costa Ribeiro appointed as the conditioning coach. The pair arrived at the team’s lodging in Abu Dhabi and are set to join training ahead of the semifinal against Pyramids.

At the same time, Zamalek received a setback as FIFA officially announced a halt on new player registrations for the upcoming transfer window due to three new cases involving FIFA’s transfer system. This development adds another layer of pressure on a squad already navigating a high-stakes clash.

Squad List for the Super Cup

Goalkeepers: Mohamed Sobhi, Mohamed Aweid, Mehdi Suleiman.

Defence: Omar Gaber, Baron Oshing, Mahmoud Hamdi “El-Wenesh,” Hossam Abdel Megid, Mohamed Ismail, Salah Moaded, Ahmed Feteih, Mahmoud Bentej.

Midfield: Ahmed Rabee, Mohamed Shahat, Mahmoud Ghadd, Saif Jaafar, Ahmed Abdel Rahim “Isho,” Abdullah Al-Saeed, Ahmed Hamdi, Nasser Maher, Abdulhamid Al-Mali, Ahmed Sharif, Shiko Panza, Juan Bizera.

Attack: Uday Al-Dhabagh, Saif El-Jaziri, Amr Nasser.

Technical Meeting Content

The technical meeting for Zamalek vs. Pyramids confirmed the white home kit for the White Knights, white shirt and shorts, while the goalkeeper will wear purple. Pyramids will wear black with an orange goalkeeper kit. It was also decided that penalty shootouts would be used if the match ends level after extra time. Referees also noted that the sixth substitution rule related to head injuries is not yet in effect for this competition, with up to five substitutions allowed across three stoppages in each half.

The winner of Zamalek v Pyramids will then face the winner of the Al Ahly vs. Ceramica Cleopatra tie in the final of the Egyptian Super Cup.