Zamalek coach explains why some players can’t play full game

Moatamed Gamal, head coach of Zamalek, described his team’s clash against Al Masry in the CAF Confederation Cup as a purely tactical and open encounter.

The match ended in a goalless draw at Borg El Arab Stadium in the third round of the group stage, raising Zamalek’s tally to five points.

Speaking during the post-match press conference, Gamal said:
“The match was a purely tactical one and open from both teams. We were hoping for better luck, but the draw is a fair result for both sides, even though Zamalek and Al Masry played to win.”

He added:
“Zamalek suffered from several absences, and this is not an excuse. We tried to make use of the Capital Cup to physically prepare some players, and the coming period will be better.”

The Zamalek coach also expressed his appreciation for the supporters, stating:
“I would like to thank the fans who attended the match to support the team despite the weather conditions and the timing of the game. This is not strange for Zamalek supporters.”

Gamal went on to explain the schedule facing his squad:
“Every match has its own circumstances, and we prepare according to the opponent. We have another league match after 48 hours against Petrojet. I told the players that the team will play 10 matches within one month, so some players cannot play 90 minutes, while others will feature for limited periods.”

He clarified the situation regarding Adam Kaied’s substitution, saying:
“Adam Kaied did not object to being substituted. He is a well-mannered player and asked to continue for 10 more minutes, but I told him that it was the best time for him to leave the pitch.”

Gamal also highlighted squad depth issues:
“We do not have a large squad, unlike Al Masry, who had quality options on the bench. We tried to divide the match into phases, and in the second half we relied on pressing Al Masry, but a lack of luck prevented us from scoring.”

He continued:
“I do not want to be unfair to Ahmed Hamdy and Mohamed El Sayed, as they had not played for three months. I am happy with their return and their performance against Al Masry.”

Gamal concluded by saying:
“Zamalek are a big club and capable of competing. The situation in the group is more difficult, but it is not bad. Our goal is to return to the top of the group.”

Zamalek drew 0–0 with Al Masry in their CAF Confederation Cup group-stage encounter at Borg El Arab, taking their points total to five after three rounds.

Group D Standings

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