Bassiouni praises Gamal’s results but criticises Zamalek’s display against Al Ahly

Abdel Hamid Bassiouni has praised the results Moatamed Gamal is achieving as Zamalek coach. The former star of the club and Egypt’s national team nevertheless believes the side needed to put in a better display in its most recent major match against Al Ahly, particularly in its tactical organisation.

Bassiouni said he was surprised by the way Zamalek approached that game. In his view, a 4-3-3 system would have been the most suitable choice against Al Ahly. He believes that shape would have brought better balance between defence and attack, making use of two quick wingers able to exploit space.

The former player also singled out Mohamed Hany’s performance, describing it as one of the Al Ahly player’s best. Bassiouni believes Hany was able to make an impact because Zamalek’s players did not put him under enough pressure during the match.

Those reservations about the performance have not stopped Bassiouni from backing Gamal’s record. He said he hoped the coach’s results with Zamalek would prevent discussion of changes to the technical staff from emerging in the coming period.