Egypt's Zamalek coach, Jesualdo Ferreira (C) of Portugal, reacts after Gambian referee, Bakary Papa Gassama (unseen), issues a red card to Aly Gaber (back) after during their Confederation Cup semi-final soccer match against Tunisia's Etoile du Sahel at Petro Sport stadium in Cairo, Egypt, October 3, 2015 (Reuters)
Zamalek coach Jesualdo Ferreira has thanked his team despite exiting the African Confederation Cup semifinal, losing 5-4 on aggregate to Tunisia's Etoile du Sahel.
Zamalek failed to make a comeback from a heavy 5-1 away defeat after they desperately scored three goals at home, but gained fans' appreciation for a solid attempt and their enthusiastic determination.
"The players delivered a great performance since the starting whistle. We have suffered from refereeing mistakes," Ferreira said after Saturday's game.
Zamalek saw their mission become even tougher when defender Ali Gabr received his marching orders for an off-ball challenge after just five minutes.
"Etoile players wasted the time of the game and kept provoking players but they failed, and Zamalek was able to shine," the 69-year-Zamalek old tactician said.
Zamalek's rivals Ahly have a tough mission Sunday at home against South Africa's Orlando Pirates after they lost 1-0 away in attempt to defend their title.
Read full Zamalek match review here and follow Ahram Online's live coverage for Ahly match here
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