Zamalek players celebrates with their 29th Egypt Cup after winning on Pyramids. Photo courtesy of Zamalek Facebook page.
The win salvages a poor season in which Zamalek struggled with off-the-pitch troubles, leading the team to finish third in the league and suffer an early elimination from the Confederation Cup.
Ahram Online collected post-match reactions from players and technical staff members:
Defender Mahmoud ‘El-Wensh’ Hamdi
"This is where Zamalek belong, lifting trophies. We gave everything we had to make the fans proud, and I'm proud of the team's resilience".
"Every player left their heart on the pitch tonight. This victory is for our loyal supporters who never stop believing in us."
The Egyptian international concluded by dedicating the victory to veteran defender Mohamed Abdel-Shafi, who played his final match for the club. "Mohamed has been a rock for us throughout his time here. This one's for him."
Striker Nasser Mansi
"We all extend our gratitude to Zamalek fans for their constant support, and it would not have been possible for these loyal fans to leave the stadium without the joy of the Cup title."
"Thank God, we succeeded in making the great fans happy. The Egypt Cup will be a step for building towards the new season."
"I felt anxious after missing the penalty kick, but God rewarded us with the championship in the end."
Goalkeeper Mohamed Awad
"I thank the trio Hazem Imam, Ahmed Hossam Mido, and Amr El-Ganayni for what they are providing to Zamalek Club at the moment."
"Everyone at Zamalek Club is working to make the fans happy, and we promise them more championships."
"I congratulate Mohamed Sobhi on the Egypt Cup title. We are all one family at Zamalek, and there are no problems between us."
Defender Omar Gaber
"This victory is very important for us. We were in dire need of it given the difficult circumstances we are going through."
"We aspired to achieve more championships this season, but winning the Egypt Cup was necessary to make the fans happy and restore confidence."
"I dedicate this coronation to the great Zamalek fans, and I hope to return soon to the ranks of the Egyptian national team."
Goalkeeper Mohamed Sobhi
"Zamalek fans cheered us on and supported us in bad times before good ones. They came today to support us and chanted for all the players."
"We were going through difficult circumstances. We exited Africa and did not succeed in the league. I dedicate this victory to the fans and congratulate Pyramids on Africa."
"Pyramids recently won the African Champions League title, but they were facing a big team. We are definitely Zamalek, but we respected them greatly at the beginning of the match."
"I saved 8 penalty kicks in yesterday's training, but I wished that Awad would save all the kicks. We all help the team, and my relationship with Awad is good off the field."
Coach Ayman El-Ramady
"I am happy that we were the reason for the joy of the large crowd of fans whose concerns I carried."
"Wait for Seif Jaafar in the future; he will be one of the best players in Egypt. He wronged himself and was wronged, but he needs to get an opportunity."
"Talking about my future is premature. We will look for what is best for the club. If the management decide to keep me, things will be excellent, and if not, I will provide them with a report that benefits the team in the future."
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