Zamalek football director Ismael Youssef has stated that his team was fatigued against Congo's Leopards despite winning 2-0 in the African Confederation Cup.
"The players' performance wasn't at its best especially during the second half because of the physical and mental fatigue they suffered due to the tight schedule," Youssef told their website after the game.
With Sunday's home win at Petrosport Stadium, Zamalek edge closer to the semis after winning the full nine points from three games.
Youssef also commented on Ayman Hefni's yellow card, which he received after taking his shirt off while celebrating scoring the second goal.
"The technical staff understand Hefni's psychological condition and how he is too enthusiastic to prove his worth, especially after the rumours linked him with a serious injury."
It was Hefni's second yellow. He will be missing the return-leg away next month, alongside with Ibrahim Salah and Ahmed Tawfik.
Some Zamalek players, including captain Hazem Emam, visited Rudi Bhebey-Ndey in hospital on Sunday afternoon after he sustained a severe neck injury during the game after a tough tackle from keeper Ahmed El-Shennawy.
Domestically, the Cairo giants are playing Talae El-Gaish on Wednesday. They need only a point to claim their first Egyptian Premier League title since 2004.
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