Zamalek Triumphs in Dramatic Egyptian Super Cup Shootout, Sealing Final Berth Over Pyramids

Match Night Recap

Ahmed Abdul-Roof, the Zamalek coach, expressed overwhelming happiness after guiding his side to the Egyptian Super Cup final following a dramatic penalty shootout victory over Pyramids, and he congratulated the White Knights' fans.

The semi-final finished 0-0 after regulation, with Zamalek prevailing 5-4 in the penalties.

The two teams produced an evenly matched encounter, with Abdul-Roof guiding a disciplined display that capitalized on late opportunities and shut down Pyramids' threat.

Coaches’ Perspectives and Key Moments

In the post-match press conference, Abdul-Roof highlighted the technical and psychological challenges his squad faced, stressing that the match was tough and that he regarded Pyramids as one of Africa's strongest sides.

In the first half, he said, Zamalek relied on quick transitions and compact defense, paying close attention to Pyramids' wing-backs who build their attacks. He revealed pairing Mahmoud Bentayik against Ahmed Fattouh to neutralize the right flank of Pyramids.

The offensive moves were not as decisive as hoped, but the main objective—advancing to the final—was achieved, and energy was conserved across both halves due to a tight schedule.

Abdul-Roof disclosed the immense pressure he faced, saying he had not slept for three days while plotting every tactical detail. He insisted the team is operating under difficult conditions, but their objective remains clear: win the Egyptian Super Cup.

Regarding the goalkeeper, he cited Mohammed Sobhi's injury as a reason for his absence, and explained that Abdallah Al-Saeed came on as a substitute due to fatigue from a previous match, not because of a lack of form. He noted Ahmed Shref's return from injury and his contributions when on the pitch.

On the tactical approach, Abdul-Roof stressed that the plan was not about exhibition but exploiting the rival's strengths through disciplined defending and dangerous counter-attacks. He added that the team avoided unnecessary pressure and preserved energy for the final stages.

Meanwhile, Krunoslav Yurcic, Pyramids' coach, voiced satisfaction with his side's performance despite the defeat on penalties, congratulating Zamalek on reaching the final and noting that his players gave their all.

He admitted that what might have made the difference was the finishing touch, the elusive final pass, and that penalties decided the outcome. He also admitted a potential tactical misstep by starting with a team member who had been carrying an injury, but insisted there was no clear reason other than the shootout for the result.

Yurcic revealed plans to bring in Mahmoud Gad as a goalkeeper change, but withdrew the idea when Mohamed Chibi complained of a cramp, reminding that five substitutions are allowed, not six. He closed by praising Zamalek's cautious blocking and their counter-attacks, and he congratulated the rival on a hard-fought win in a match that deserved more goals.

The renewed rivalry heads to a sizzling final between Zamalek and their arch-rivals Al Ahly on Sunday, with Pyramids facing Ceramica Cleopatra in a third-place decider. This edition repeats last year's script, with Al Ahly and Zamalek clashing in the final after a dramatic shootout, while Zamalek furthered their dominance in the Cup run this season.

In a final touch of drama, Nasser Maher was named Man of the Match for his standout performance, while goalkeeper Mohammed Awad starred by saving a crucial penalty from Mustafa Abdul-Rouof "Ziko," sealing Zamalek's passage to the final.