Khaled Galal, the head coach of Ghazl El Mahalla, confirmed that he was confident in achieving a positive result in his team's recent match against Zamalek, which was played as part of the Premier League competitions.
Zamalek defeated its host, Ghazl El Mahalla, by one goal to nil, scored in the final seconds of the match between the two teams, during the fifth round of the Egyptian Premier League.
Khaled Galal said in statements to On Sport FM radio: "I was worried about Zamalek winning against Ghazl El Mahalla by a large margin, and people then talking about my responsibility, but I worked extensively with the team on both psychological and technical levels before that encounter."
He added: "We closed down Zamalek's key playmakers, represented by the full-backs, and we also shut down the center of the pitch. We played on counter-attacks, had numerous chances, and missed opportunities that should not have been missed."
He continued: "With its experience, Zamalek knows how to win from few chances, and succeeded in doing so against us. They were awarded a penalty that is considered correct, but there was another situation where Mahmoud Al-Wonsh, Zamalek's defender, might have deserved a red card. However, overall, the refereeing provided a good match."
He completed: "During the draw, I was saying that Zamalek would not score a goal, and I was reassured because we had closed everything down for them and played on the spaces behind their defense... I was never as worried as happens in some other matches."
He went on: "Behind Zamalek is a strong fan base... The state of Zamalek's fans is exceptional; they cheer from the first minute. Even though the team is not currently in its best form, they continue to support until the last second, which gives the players great motivation."
He added: "This may be a reason for the luck that accompanies Zamalek, alongside the work and effort of Maatoum Gamal, who deserves the opportunity to coach the White Team after winning the league last season."
Khaled Galal concluded his statements by saying: "I am happy to be with a popular club, and I am honored to be at the helm of the technical leadership of Ghazl El Mahalla. Its fans love beautiful football, which aligns with my ideas."
