Published Date: 2025-05-09 09:45:37 Updated At: 2025-05-09 09:45:37

Mohamed Awad will start as Zamalek’s goalkeeper in the upcoming Egypt Cup final against Pyramids, scheduled for June 5. This decision comes in the wake of the departure of former Portuguese head coach José Peseiro, who had previously implemented a rotation system for goalkeepers across different competitions. Under his plan, Mohamed Sobhi was expected to play in Egypt Cup matches. However, recent technical changes led the current coaching staff to alter this approach.

Sources within the club revealed that the technical staff has decided to rely on Awad as the team’s main goalkeeper in the final due to his experience and stability. The coaching staff aims to maintain a consistent lineup for the rest of the season to avoid any disruption or tension within the squad, especially with the high-stakes matches coming up.

This decision is part of the current coaching staff’s strategy to ensure tactical stability and lineup consistency. They believe that making changes at this sensitive stage—particularly in a crucial position like goalkeeper—could undermine players’ confidence or negatively impact the team’s collective performance. Zamalek is pushing for strong results to end the season on a high note, both in the league and the Egypt Cup.

Previously, Peseiro had designated Awad for league and continental matches, while assigning Cup matches and the Capital Cup to Sobhi. This plan was followed strictly during his tenure, and it was expected to continue through the Cup final. However, Peseiro’s departure shifted the coaching staff’s outlook, leading to the decision to keep Awad in goal for all matches.

According to the source, Awad will remain the starting goalkeeper for the rest of the season, including the Cup final against Pyramids. The aim is to maintain team confidence and stability, and to avoid any decisions that could disrupt team chemistry. The coaches believe that Awad’s experience makes him well-suited to handle the pressure of finals, especially given his history of playing in big matches for Zamalek.

Meanwhile, Zamalek is set to face Ceramica Cleopatra today, Friday, at 5 p.m. at the Arab Contractors Stadium, as part of Matchweek 5 in the second phase of the Egyptian Premier League. The team currently sits third in the standings with 40 points and is striving to maintain its position in the top four to secure qualification for continental competitions next season.

This stage of the season is crucial for the White Knights, as they face strong opponents who are also fighting for their own goals—whether to clinch top spots or avoid relegation. As such, maintaining a stable formation, especially in defense and goalkeeping, has become a top priority for the coaching staff to ensure focus and psychological readiness among the players.

The decision to stick with Awad is not just technical—it’s also about preserving unity and cohesion within the squad. Changing goalkeepers at this stage could be perceived by some players as a lack of trust and may lead to friction, something the coaching staff was keen to avoid.

The decision was reportedly supported by several senior players, who stressed the importance of stability and unity at this decisive point in the season. Fans, too, are looking for redemption through a Cup victory, hoping the team can reclaim its position as one of the top forces in Egyptian football. Awad’s experience and strong mental presence give him an edge in these pressure-filled matches.

Despite Mohamed Sobhi’s solid performances this season, the coaching staff believes now is not the time for experimentation or risk—especially with a formidable opponent like Pyramids, who have been serious title contenders in recent seasons and boast a roster full of quality players.

All hopes are now pinned on a strong performance in the final that satisfies the club’s fans, who are eager to see Zamalek lift the Egypt Cup as compensation for past disappointments and as a sign of the team’s potential return to glory. The team is expected to field its best lineup, with Awad leading the defense from between the posts in what will be a pivotal role in the club’s push for silverware.