An Egyptian derby headlines the TotalEnergies CAF Confederation Cup Quarter-Finals where North African powerhouse, Zamalek SC takes on Future FC in a two-legged affair set for 31 March and 07 April.
The last continental title for Zamalek was four years ago when they won the TotalEnergies CAF Super Cup as a result of them lifting the TotalEnergies Cup Confederation Cup in 2020.
Since then, it’s been quite a lengthy wait for a club of Zamalek’s stature to have not lifted a CAF Inter-Club competition title.
The White Knights, as the club is nicknamed are one of the favourites this season after finishing their group campaign with highest point tally and no losses.
But first, they will need to overcome the ambitious Future FC who are equally capable of causing an upset in the two-legged derby.
Brief History:
Zamalek Sports Club was formed in January 1911 and is one of the oldest clubs in African football. Since then, the club has firmly established itself as a powerhouse in African football, drawing thousands of fans over the years.
The club is involved in one of Africa’s fiercest battles when competing in the Cairo derby against old-time foes, Al Ahly.
Achievements
They have lifted the Egyptian Premier League 14 times with their first title dating back to 1959. Zamalek have enjoyed more success in the Egypt Cup, lifting it an impressive 28 times while also lifting the Egyptian Super Cup four times.
Continental Achievements
The Egyptian giants enjoyed great success in the TotalEnergies CAF Champions League with five titles. They only have one CAF Confederation Cup title and four CAF Super Cup titles to their name.
Head Coach – Jose Gomes
Portuguese coach, Jose Gomes is the trusted man to restore continental pride to Zamalek. Appointed this year, the coach brings a wealth of international experience to the Egyptian club, having coached Spanish clubs Ponferradina and UD Almeria as well as English side, Reading FC.
At 26, Ahmed Hamdi is one of Zamalek’s key players in the midfield as the orchestrator of attacks. Hamdi was signed by the club after a successful spell in the Major Soccer League with CF Montreal.
The midfield maestro also played for Al Ahly and was moulded by the club’s youth academy.
