In the post-match press conference, José Gomes attributed their African Super Cup victory to their attention to small details.
Speaking to Saudi Arabian news outlet Al-Sharq Al-Awsat, the Portuguese coach emphasized the team’s focus on small details as the key to success: “This match was all about the details. We stayed concentrated for the entire 90 minutes, and this title is a well-earned achievement for Zamalek.”
Gomes went on to express pride in his players: “We’ve shown that we can beat any team. We created plenty of opportunities and dedicate this trophy to our fans, who support us in every competition.”
Addressing the controversy surrounding the team’s decision to withdraw from the game, Gomes clarified, “The players initially chose to withdraw, but after the referee’s final confirmation of the penalty, we decided to stay and fight because we represent a big club. We had to give everything to win.”
He concluded by stating, “To be part of a big club, whether as a player or a coach, you must aim to win every match. We don’t know what the next challenge will be, but we will compete for all titles in the name of Zamalek’s spirit.”
Al Ahly opened the scoring through Wissam Abou Ali’s penalty in the 44th minute, but Zamalek’s Nasser Mansi leveled the score in the 77th minute.
In the penalty shootout, Al Ahly missed two crucial penalties, while Zamalek players calmly converted theirs, securing the championship.
Al Ahly suffered their second consecutive Super Cup defeat, keeping their record at eight titles, the most of any club, followed by Zamalek with 5 titles.
This victory marks José Gomes’ second trophy with the White Knights, following their CAF Confederation Cup win. It’s an especially remarkable feat, as the Portuguese coach only joined the club seven months ago, midway through last season.