CAF Confederation Cup: Gamal- ‘Zamalek expected better result against AS Otohô’

Getting a draw on the road in tough sweltering conditions should be a good result, but not for Zamalek SC coach Motamed Gamal following Saturday’s 1-1 quarterfinal, first leg draw at AS Otohô in the CAF Confederation Cup.

The difficult-to-please Egyptian coach said he was expecting a better result in Brazzaville. Reflecting on the one-all draw with the Congolese side at the Stade Alphonse Massemba-Débat, Gamal felt the two-time Confederation Cup champions had the better chances to win the match.

“I was hoping to achieve a better result during the match against Otohô. And the return match will be difficult,” the coach said in comments recorded by the club’s website.

🎞️ Match Highlights:
Level after the first leg as AS Otohô and Zamalek SC score once each. #TotalEnergiesCAFCC pic.twitter.com/pYeuD9VjjJ

— TotalEnergies CAFCL & CAFCC 🏆 (@CAFCLCC) March 14, 2026

Why Zamalek coach anticipates a tough second leg at home

Despite the away point collected and heading to a familiar terror, the coach said he was anticipating a difficult second leg encounter in Cairo next Friday.

Gamal credited his backroom team for doing a good job in studying AS Otohô’s style of play before the match.

The coach added that he was aware of the opponent’s strengths and weaknesses, adding that Zamalek played under difficult circumstances due to the intimidating home crowd and humid weather conditions.

The visitors struck against the run of play in the 32nd minute through Oday Dabbagh to cancel out Charles Atipo’s 13th minute free kick for the Coupe du Congo champions.

The reigning Egypt Cup champions will be favoured to progress when the teams meet again for the second leg next Sunday in Cairo.