Keeper Order Confirmed as Zamalek Eyes a Strong CAF Cup Start

Match Preview

Ahmed Abdel-Raouf, head coach of Zamalek, announced that the team is prepared to face ZESCO United of Zambia tomorrow at Cairo International Stadium in the Group Stage opening of the CAF Confederation Cup, and he underscored that the players will fight to dedicate the victory to the memory of the late Mohamed Sabry.

Speaking at the pre-match press conference, Abdel-Raouf offered condolences to Egypt for Sabry’s passing, saying the upcoming game would be played in his honor as the team strives for a big performance and for the players to give their best in his memory.

Strength of the Group and GK Lineup

The coach highlighted the difficulty of Group D, which includes strong sides such as Misr El-Makkasa, Kaizer Chiefs, and ZESCO. He stated that Zamalek is a storied club aiming to compete at a high level and that every match will be treated as an opportunity to win and to display a performance worthy of the club’s history.

Abdel-Raouf also noted that the squad has enough experience to handle pressure, emphasizing that the match against ZESCO represents a true test for the start of the group stage and that the players are ready for the challenge.

Injuries, Fatigue, and GK Decisions

Regarding injuries and absences, he explained that the team played three matches in ten days, which led to the absence of a few key players. He, however, reassured fans that the rest of the squad is fully fit and prepared for the next game.

On goalkeepers, he denied any rift, saying: “Mohamed Sobhy missed the local Super Cup due to injury, and Mohamed Awwad has shouldered responsibility during a difficult period; for now, they are my number ones.”

Absences and Support for Local Coaches

When addressing the absence of some professionals, Abdel-Raouf clarified that Chiko Banzo was informed of a brother’s death and provided a death certificate, while Oshing Baron was delayed due to flight issues. He added that the club will handle such situations according to each player’s circumstances and stressed patience with Egyptian coaches, saying there are top-level coaches who need time to prove themselves.

He wrapped up by inviting fans to back the local coaches and to be patient with them as they pursue results.

Team Spirit and Pre-Match Hype

Captain Omar Gaber emphasized that the Zesco match is a crucial start to the group stage and offered condolences to Sabry’s family and Zamalek supporters. He expressed the desire to win with the backing of the supporters and noted there are two more matches before the international break, which could shape the group’s trajectory as they aim for a strong beginning.

The ZESCO Challenge

Mathews Ndlofu, ZESCO United’s head coach, confirmed his squad’s readiness to take on Zamalek in what he described as a big test for his side. He said the trip to Cairo went well, and the team is prepared for all scenarios, having faced Zamalek previously and hoping to show their best form.

Ndlofu added that facing strong teams like Zamalek and the Egyptian league’s passion calls for a high level of work. He stressed that every point is important in the group, and the squad will strive to accumulate as many as possible as the campaign unfolds.

He also thanked everyone for the warm reception in Egypt as the teams prepared for kickoff.

Morale and Focus for the Opener

Lindo Makunta, a ZESCO midfielder, said the mood in the camp is high and the players are ready to fight for a positive result. He highlighted the importance of mental preparation and the coach’s emphasis on giving their best in every session.

Makunta noted that they will treat each group match individually and aim for the best possible outcome against Zamalek, especially with the real prospect of a strong start at Cairo’s stadium.

As kickoff approaches, Zamalek and ZESCO both gas up for a battle in the opening round of the group stage, a match watched with hope by Egyptian fans seeking a robust continental campaign. The game is scheduled for 9:00 PM local time at Cairo International Stadium, with the home side carrying the weight of expectation from their supporters.

Kick-off Details

The clash between Zamalek and ZESCO United kicks off at 9 PM local time in Cairo, in a fixture that could set the tone for Group D in Africa’s Confederation Cup.