Photo Credit: Zamalek SC
Portuguese coach José Gomes, head coach of Zamalek SC, praised his team’s performance in the first half of their Group D clash against Nigeria’s Enyimba in the CAF Confederation Cup which took place on Sunday.
Speaking at the post-match press conference, Gomes said: "I thank the Nigerian people for their warm hospitality. I wished for a larger crowd in the stands to enjoy the match."
He continued: "We started the game well and the players executed the instructions correctly but towards the end of the first half the hosts managed to score their first goal."
Gomes added: "In the second half we deviated from our usual style which allowed Enyimba to create chances. Their second goal came after the ball deflected off one of our defenders and found its way into Mohamed Awad's net."
The coach noted: "After the hosts’ second goal the game became balanced between the two teams and we missed several clear chances to score."
He continued: "The upcoming matches against Al Masry will be decisive in determining the group’s standings and the chances of advancing to the next stage."
Gomes explained: "Zamalek applied high pressing from the start of the match and the team deserved to come away with a point after a strong start and scoring two goals. However, mistakes allowed the hosts to equalize."
He concluded by addressing Mahmoud Bentayg's injury: "Bentayg was injured in the first half. In coordination with the team doctor we asked him to leave the pitch but he insisted on completing the half. During halftime the medical staff decided he should not continue."
Zamalek drew 2-2 with Enyimba in their Group Stage match of the CAF Confederation Cup at the Godswill Akpabio International Stadium in Uyo, Nigeria. The result raised Zamalek's tally to 4 points, placing them at the top of Group D.
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