The Cairo giants’ hopes of reaching the prestigious tournament’s semis were dashed after losing to Congolese AS Vita Club 1-0 in Alexandria two weeks ago.
The loss was the first for the Whites under new coach Hossam Hassan who was eyeing a winning debut in his second stint with the team.
“I will work hard to heal the players’ dip in form in the CAF Champions League and prepare them well for the season’s start,” Hassan was quoted as saying on a television programme after the game.
AS Vita Club sealed qualification for the semifinal alongside fellow countrymen TP Mazembe.
Al-Hilal of Sudan were also eliminated from the Champions League, thus both sides will be looking for a moral victory to reconcile their fans.
“The Al-Hilal game will be good preparation for the players ahead of the Super Cup game against Ahly,” the Zamalek coach added.
“I thank the players, management and fans for their support and confidence but the coming will be better for the team as I aim to build a new squad,” the tactician said.
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