Marcel Koller: "The Super Cup clash will be intense"
Al Ahly head coach Marcel Koller has acknowledged the challenging nature of the upcoming 2024 TotalEnergies CAF Super Cup match, where his team will face arch-rivals Zamalek on Friday at the Kingdom Arena in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia.
Speaking at the pre-match press conference, the Swiss tactician emphasized that the contest will feature two powerful sides, both of whom have a storied history in African football. He also highlighted the formidable quality of their opponents.
“The Super Cup will be played as a single match, and it is crucial for us to win it,” Koller stated. “We have several motivations at the start of the season to claim this title. There is no difference between playing against Zamalek on a national or African stage, as they are a prestigious team and a formidable opponent.”
With tickets for the match selling out in just 24 hours, Koller expressed his delight at the prospect of playing in front of a packed stadium. “We always aim for victory and strive to deliver the best performance possible. I am thrilled to see the stadium filled with fans, all eager to witness an intense match against a strong opponent.”
When asked about his team selection for the Super Cup, Koller remained tight-lipped. Responding to speculation about a potential partnership between Imam Ashour and Mohamed Magdy Afsha, he said, “We have not yet decided on the starting lineup, and I prefer to keep it a surprise.”
Goalkeeper Mohamed El Shenawy also attended the press conference and expressed his appreciation for Saudi Arabia’s hospitality. “We are always warmly welcomed in Saudi Arabia, and this is not the first time the country has hosted a match between Al Ahly and Zamalek,” said El Shenawy.
The Al Ahly captain acknowledged the strength of their opponents and the importance of the Super Cup title. “We are prepared for the TotalEnergies CAF Super Cup. Zamalek is our traditional rival, a renowned team with a dedicated fan base. Our goal is to win the Super Cup and bring joy to our supporters.”
He concluded his remarks by emphasizing the resilience of Al Ahly players. “Al Ahly players always rise to the occasion in difficult moments. We maintain maximum focus, and I consistently remind the team to respect every opponent, especially a club as significant as Zamalek.”
The highly anticipated showdown between Egypt’s top football clubs promises to be an electrifying encounter, as both teams aim to start their season on a high note by securing this prestigious continental title.