Zamalek coach Yannick Ferrera: “We deserve the win,Chico Banza’s frustration not a big issue”

Belgian coach Yannick Ferrera, coach of Zamalek, said that the match against Ceramica Cleopatra in the opening round of the Nile Egyptian League was balanced, noting that there were moments when the opponent had greater possession of the ball.

He added that his team managed to control Ceramica’s possession, with the opponent having only one chance in the first half.

The coach continued: “We succeeded in creating many attacking situations in the match. We would have liked to have the ball for longer periods, but the players showed an excellent mentality and worked very hard to secure the win.”

Ferrera added: “I am happy with a victory we fully deserve, and we will keep working to continue achieving wins in the coming period.”

Speaking about Nabil Dunga, Ferrera said: “He was not injured, but the coaching staff sensed fatigue in the player in addition to him having received a yellow card. There was concern about him getting a second yellow, but he played a good match.”

Regarding Chico Banza’s frustration after being substituted, Ferrera commented: “I have never in my life seen a player happy when being substituted. This is not a big issue for us to dwell on, and I am sure he has a lot to offer the team.”

Ferrera continued: “I do not want opposing teams to know how Zamalek prepare to play, and there will be different approaches in the upcoming matches. Today’s match was difficult, and Chico Banza was up against a strong defensive setup from the opponent.”

The Belgian coach explained that he knows Zamalek fans have a great hunger for victory and that they were one of the motivating factors for the players. “After the match, we went to salute them,” he said.

Ferrera concluded: “The preparations in the training camp were general for all ideas, and there was not enough time to work individually with the players. We will work individually with Seifeddine Jaziri and the other strikers. Jaziri came on at a time when there were many transitions in the match, and if his physical readiness improves, he will be able to finish chances better. As for Oday Dabbagh, he will appear with the team in the coming period.”

Zamalek defeated Ceramica Cleopatra 2-0 to earn their first three points in the league as they begin their quest for the title.