Pyramids forward Mohamed El-Gabbas has insisted that Zamalek do not hold a clear advantage over his side, describing their encounters as evenly balanced, while also admitting that the club’s exit from the African Champions League came as a significant setback.
Speaking about the current state of Egyptian football, El-Gabbas highlighted a noticeable improvement in the atmosphere between leading clubs, particularly in relations involving Al Ahly and Pyramids. He suggested that competition has become more focused on sporting success rather than rivalry-driven tensions.
“Everyone saw that the team is competing to win championships and not to spite a particular club, and this happened after winning several championships, so things have become better and I hope the competition remains only on the field.”
Balanced Rivalry with Zamalek
Addressing the competitive dynamic between Pyramids and Zamalek, El-Gabbas dismissed any notion of dominance by either side. Instead, he portrayed their meetings as closely contested, with outcomes often shifting between the two teams.
“Zamalek’s heel is not high over Pyramids, we beat them and they beat us, so the matches are back and forth, maybe their focus in our matches is greater, and maybe the defeat in the first round makes us focus more in the second round match.”
His comments underline a rivalry defined more by parity than hierarchy, with both teams capable of securing victories depending on form and preparation.
Continental Disappointment
Despite domestic competitiveness, El-Gabbas acknowledged that Pyramids’ campaign in Africa ended in disappointment. The forward described their early elimination from the African Champions League as unexpected and difficult to accept.
“Exiting the African Champions League was a huge shock for us, and the result of the first leg was very deceptive and perhaps it was one of the reasons for the early exit.”
The remarks suggest that early impressions from the tie may have contributed to complacency or misjudgment, ultimately affecting the team’s progression in the tournament.
Praise for Jurcic’s Influence
El-Gabbas reserved strong praise for Pyramids’ head coach Jurcic, crediting him with elevating the team’s overall performance and consistency. While acknowledging occasional moments of intensity, he framed the coach’s personality as largely beneficial.
“Jurcic’s temper is mostly positive, and less so at times negative. As a player, I like the personality of these coaches, and I think everyone has gotten used to his way.”
He went further in his assessment, placing Jurcic at the top of Egyptian football’s coaching ranks.
“Jurcic is the best coach in Egyptian football right now. He took the team to another level. We won several championships under his leadership. He is the coach who hasn’t changed since he came. Behind him comes Ali Maher, the coach of Ceramica Cleopatra. He is a great coach and can change any team for the better under his leadership.”
Strong Views on Players and Club Status
El-Gabbas also singled out Ibrahim Adel for individual praise, identifying him as the standout player in the country.
“Ibrahim Adel is the best in Egypt in my opinion, because he is significantly different from any other player despite his departure.”
He concluded by asserting Pyramids’ position at the top of Egyptian football, despite acknowledging structural disadvantages compared to traditional giants.
“Pyramids is currently the best club in Egyptian football, especially since it does not have the same fans and does not receive the support that Al-Ahly and Zamalek receive.”
Confidence Amid Challenges
El-Gabbas’ remarks reflect a player confident in his team’s standing, even as they process recent disappointments. While the African campaign ended abruptly, belief in the squad, coaching staff, and overall project at Pyramids remains strong.
As the domestic season continues, the team appears determined to channel that confidence into performances on the pitch, maintaining their push for silverware in an increasingly competitive landscape.
