Zamalek coach Motamed Gamal. Photo: Al-Ahram
The Cairo giants claimed a slender 1-0 away victory over the Algerian side in the first leg of the semi-final, putting them in the driving seat for a place in the continental prestigious tournament final.
“The game was difficult for both teams as I expected. CR Belouizdad is a strong opponent that includes prominent players, but Zamalek made the best use of the experience of its players, dominated the majority of the game and finally achieved the target,” Gamal said in the press conference after the game.
“We just ended the first half, while the second and most important is waiting for us in Egypt. We hope that we will be lucky and reach the final,” the 52-year-old coach added.
The White Knights now hold a significant advantage ahead of the second leg in Cairo, where they will only need a draw to secure their progression.
Zamalek will host the return leg next Friday at the Cairo International Stadium, where they are the favourites to confirm their spot in the final.
“Our players delivered their best, and our target was to achieve the best result. I would like to thank them for the big game that they delivered under the big pressure of the opponent fans,” the Zamalek coach added.
Gamal insisted that the return game in Cairo won’t be such an easy one, hailing the concentration of his players to proceed to the final.
“The return match will be difficult as the opponent plays modern football. The result of Friday’s match is a decisive one, and Zamalek haven’t qualified yet, and all players are fully concentrated to achieve the target,” he concluded.
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