Zamalek head coach Motamed Gamal. Photo courtesy of Zamalek.
The White Knights are set to face the Algerian side at the Cairo International Stadium for the decisive second leg of the continental final, as they are trailing 1-0 after a narrow defeat in Algeria at the 5 July Stadium last Saturday.
Speaking at the pre-match press conference on Friday, Gamal adopted a philosophical approach to the challenge ahead.
"We previously discussed in Algeria that this final is played over two halves," Gamal told reporters. "The first half is over. That is football, we lost by a goal, but we have closed that chapter and are now fully prepared for the second half in Cairo.”
Gamal emphasized that his technical staff has prepared for every possible outcome of the 90 minutes, including the possibility of the match being decided from the spot.
"We are working on all scenarios, including a penalty shootout. While we hope to secure the title within regulation time, Zamalek is ready for anything. Our sole objective is the trophy," he said.
Gamal also hinted at a tactical shift for the return leg, noting that the team would likely adopt a different shape than the one seen in Algeria, acknowledging the quality of the opposition and their veteran manager, Lamine N'Diaye.
"USM Alger is a big name and N'Diaye is a highly respected coach. We respect our opponents, but we will play a balanced game to achieve our goal. The presence of our fans will be a massive motivation rather than a source of pressure. We want to deliver a performance worthy of Zamalek’s history," the 52-year-old coach added.
The coach also took a moment to defend center-back Hossam Abdelmaguid, who faced criticism following the first leg.
"Defenders carry immense responsibility, and it is natural for people to focus only on mistakes. Hossam played a great game in Algeria and has been one of our most consistent performers lately. One moment of bad luck does not define him; I have spoken with him and reminded him that he remains one of our best players."
Gamal concluded by stressing that his personal future with the club is secondary to the team's success, "The most important thing for me is that Zamalek win the Confederation Cup and the Egyptian Premier League. My future is not what matters right now."
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