Zamalek Coach: “We respect Kaizer Chiefs… our goal is three points”

Zamalek head coach Ahmed Abdelraouf stressed that the club has been received with full respect since arriving in South Africa, adding that Saturday’s clash against Kaizer Chiefs will be “big and important,” with the technical staff fully aware of the strength of the opponent.

Speaking at the pre-match press conference, Abdelraouf said:
“We represent Zamalek, a great club. We play every match with the aim of winning and collecting three points.”

He added that starting the group stage with a victory was crucial, and the team now aims for a second consecutive win.
“We know the value of Kaizer Chiefs as a team. Our goal is the three points, especially since our next two matches will be in Egypt against Al Masry.”

Absences of El-Said and Dunga Felt, but Squad Depth Exists

Abdelraouf acknowledged that the absences of Abdallah El-Said and Nabil Emad Dunga affect the team, but insisted that Zamalek still possesses high-quality players capable of filling any gaps:
“The group we have brought can compensate for any absences.”

He also reflected on recent performances, particularly the narrow win over Zesco:
“After the Super Cup, we faced several challenges. Against Zesco, we created many chances but lacked efficiency. Still, the important thing was securing the win and the three points.”

Respect for Kaizer Chiefs

The Zamalek coach praised the South African side’s organisation and home support:
“Kaizer Chiefs are a disciplined team with a clear playing style. Their fans make a big difference at home. Tomorrow’s match will be a big contest between two strong teams.”

Future Talk Is “Premature”

Abdelraouf dismissed the idea that the match would decide Zamalek’s fate in the group:
“Talking about our future in the competition based on tomorrow’s result is premature. We still have two matches against Al Masry. Every match I manage at Zamalek matters to my personal history with the club. I don’t think about my future—any success I achieve is for Zamalek first.”

He concluded by emphasising the importance of victory:
“Sometimes fans are not fully satisfied with performances, but winning tomorrow will give the team a big push in the group.”

Zamalek face Kaizer Chiefs in the second round of the CAF Champions League group stage at 3:00 PM (CAT) on Saturday at the Peter Mokaba Stadium in Polokwane.

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