‘We want to restore our pride': Ahly coach Koller ahead of Zamalek showdown

Mahmoud Elassal , Monday 21 Oct 2024

Ahly's Swiss coach Marcel Koller is gearing up for a significant face-off with Zamalek in the Egyptian Super Cup final, with aspirations to "restore pride and gratify the team's supporters."

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The defending champions secured their spot in the final by besting Ceramica Cleopatra 2-1 in the Super Cup semifinals on Sunday.

Their much-anticipated clash against arch-rivals Zamalek is scheduled for Thursday.

"We began the match against Ceramica Cleopatra at a high level, scoring within 11 seconds. However, we lost focus thereafter, allowing them to equalize," Koller said during the post-game press conference.

"The silver lining from the match is our qualification for the final," the Swiss coach added in the post-game press conference.

Emphasising the need for enhanced performance in upcoming matches, Koller urged his players to give their all and maintain unwavering concentration.

Zamalek enters the final with boosted morale following their recent win over Ahly in the African Super Cup.

"Suffering a defeat in a penalty shootout was disheartening, and we are eager to reclaim our pride and delight our loyal supporters," concluded the Ahly coach.

In a bold move, Koller opted to rest several key players during the Ceramica Cleopatra game, including star goalkeeper Mohamed El Shennawy and the league's leading scorer, Wessam Abou Ali.

 

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