Zamalek head coach, Jose Gomes, has expressed admiration for Kenya Police FC’s players, stating that some of them have the potential to excel in leagues of "higher" standards, despite the team’s 1-0 loss to the reigning CAF Confederation Cup holders.
The match, held at Nyayo National Stadium last Saturday, marked Kenya Police’s continental debut, where they faced the Egyptian giants with notable resilience.
The visitors secured the win courtesy of a well-timed goal just before halftime. Zamalek’s midfielder Abdalla Mohamed found the back of the net deep into first-half stoppage time, breaking the deadlock
Kenya Police chairman Nyale Munga has labeled Zamalek 'lucky' ahead of the second leg in Cairo with a group stage place in the CAF Confederation Cup on the line.
Despite the White Knights maintaining their slim advantage for the rest of the match, Gomes was quick to acknowledge Kenya Police’s strong performance, which exceeded expectations given their inexperience at this level.
“They have very good players and the energy they put here shows some of them can play in a high level,” Gomes remarked during the post-match press conference. “I am sorry, but some of them can play in better leagues in the world.”
Kenya Police fielded a team largely made up of experienced players with international caps. Of the 11 starters, only David Okoth, Jaffari Owiti, and Marvine Nabwire had not represented their national team or played in continental competitions.
Former Harambee Stars midfielder McDonald Mariga has praised Gor Mahia's performance despite their 3-0 defeat to Al Ahly in CAF Champions League.
The rest of the squad, including several key internationals, gave a strong account of themselves despite falling short in the contest.
With the second leg scheduled to take place in Cairo this Friday, Gomes is aware of the threat Kenya Police pose. Zamalek, having won the CAF Confederation Cup twice, are hoping to draw on their experience to progress to the group stages of the competition.
However, Gomes’ comments suggest he is not taking the Kenyan side lightly, as they proved to be worthy adversaries in the first leg.
The aggregate winner from the two-legged fixture will earn a coveted spot in the tournament’s group stage.