Omar Gaber has expressed confidence in Zamalek SC’s ability to deliver another continental success as the Egyptian side prepare to face USM Alger in the first leg of the African Confederation Cup final.
Speaking to the CAF website before the decisive encounter, the Zamalek captain said the squad’s previous experience in African competitions could play a significant role as the team chase another major title.
The Egyptian club are preparing for one of the biggest matches of their season, with ambitions of adding another continental trophy to a history already filled with domestic and African honours.
Gaber said preparations inside the squad have been taking place in a highly focused atmosphere, particularly as the team continue to compete on multiple fronts this season, including both the Egyptian League and continental competition.
The veteran defender stressed that the players remain fully motivated to secure another achievement for the club and its supporters.
“The current generation of Zamalek has considerable experience in African competitions, having previously won the African Confederation Cup and the African Super Cup the season before last,” Gaber said.
“The current group plays with a great team spirit and all the players are united in order to achieve the common goal.”
Zamalek will face a difficult challenge against USM Alger, a side Gaber described as worthy finalists with strong quality and experience.
He acknowledged the strength of the Algerian club while insisting that Zamalek’s objective remains securing victory in the first leg.
“USM Alger is a distinguished team, and they did not reach the final by chance,” he said.
“They are certainly a strong and great competitor, and we respect them a lot. They have a large following in Algeria, and they have distinguished and experienced players, but Zamalek is looking to win the first leg.”
The comments reflect the cautious approach within the Egyptian side ahead of the continental showdown, with players aware of the challenges posed by an opponent that has built a reputation for competitiveness in African football.
Gaber also spoke about his responsibilities as captain and one of the senior figures within the squad. Having joined Zamalek’s first team in 2010, the experienced player highlighted the importance of passing on knowledge and guidance to younger teammates.
“I am the team captain currently. I joined the first team at Zamalek Club in 2010, and I strive to continuously share my experience with the players, along with senior players in the team such as Mahmoud Hamdi El Wensh, Abdullah El Said and Ahmed Fatouh,” he said.
“We talk to them about the importance of the match and the need to focus on the details in the upcoming encounter.”
The defender also reserved special praise for Zamalek supporters, describing them as a vital part of the club’s success both domestically and on the continental stage.
“I thank the Zamalek fans because they are the number one player in the team, and we expect their continued support in the remaining matches of the season, given their importance in winning the Egyptian League and the African Confederation Cup,” he said.
“To make the fans happy, who never hesitate to support the team, whether inside Egypt or abroad, and we expect an unprecedented turnout from them in the final in Cairo.”
Zamalek now head into the final carrying both expectation and confidence as they attempt to secure another African title in front of their supporters.
