
Zamalek s newly appointed Portuguese coach Jose Gomes
The Cairo giants celebrated their first league victory under Gomes' guidance on Thursday, defeating Dakhleya 1-0 at Cairo Stadium.
Gomes’s mission with the White Knights, which started in early February, got off to a slow start as they were held to a goalless draw by Ismaily in the Egyptian League.
"My current target with Zamalek is to secure the first trophy and bring joy to the White Castle's supporters," Gomez, 53, said in TV comments Thursday night after the victory over Dakhleya.
Zamalek are scheduled to face Ahly in the 2022-23 Egypt Cup final on 8 March in Saudi Arabia.
The Whites secured their spot in the Egypt Cup final after beating Pyramids FC 4-3 on penalties following an exciting 3-3 draw in a 120-minute thrilling encounter.
On the other hand, defending champions Ahly delivered an impressive performance with a 3-0 victory over Enppi in the semi-finals to book their place in the final.
"History will remember the result and the winner of the cup, not who put on a good performance, so all we need to do is maintain balance in the team and minimize mistakes," Gomez added.
Zamalek, who have already secured their place in the quarterfinals of the African Confederation Cup, will face Guinea's SOAR Coyah in the final round of the group stage on Sunday, five days before their Egypt Cup final against Ahly.
"There will be a game in the Confederation Cup, and it should serve as good preparation for the Egypt Cup final against Ahly, as the latter boasts a squad with more talented players," the Portuguese coach said.
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