"We are facing a technically and physically strong team. We need to show our true face tomorrow if we want to win. I expect them to play their usual game and it will be a difficult encounter," Gomes said at a pre-match press conference.

Gomes emphasised the importance of focus throughout the match, looking to exploit weaknesses and capitalise on any chances.

"We need to be fully concentrated for the entire 90 minutes. While it's an advantage to play the first leg at home, we will be missing defending duo Omar Gaber, Ahmed Fattouh, and classy winger Ahmed "Zizo" Sayed due to injuries. However, we will start with 11 players, and we're confident in the group we have."

The Portuguese coach said they are now past the recent victory over arch-rivals Ahly in the Cairo derby, insisting the team is fully focused on the upcoming challenge.

"The derby win is behind. In football, you must always look ahead. The Ahly game is in the past. We face a strong challenge now," he added.

Gomes highlighted Dreams FC's attacking threat and said they have been working to contain it and hopes to achieve a good result at home.

"Our fans are incredible. We are a big club with a great history, and we owe it to them to fight for victory in every match. If we go into the game thinking we have an advantage, we could be punished. We must respect Dreams FC because they are a strong team," he concluded.

The White Knights are aiming for a comfortable home win to take control of the tie before travelling to Ghana for the return leg. The winner of this semi-final will face either Algeria’s USM Alger or RS Berkane of Morocco in the final.

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