Ahmed Abdel Raouf, the coach of Zamalek, spoke about the difficult circumstances his team is going through following the White Knights' qualification to the Round of 16 in the Egypt Cup.

Zamalek secured a hard-fought 1-0 victory over Baladiyat El Mahalla in a match held today, Sunday, in the Round of 32 of the Egypt Cup.

Ahmed Abdel Raouf said at the press conference after the match: "Many people can assess the technical level, but the circumstances within the team are very difficult. We entered the Cairo Capital Cup without a complete defensive line, before Mahmoud Al-Wensh returned, and Ahmed Abdel Rahim Esho was assigned to play as the left-back."

He explained: "The fans are not satisfied with the performance, but the circumstances are very difficult. We are working to please the Zamalek supporters, and the financial crisis the club is going through is affecting the team. I am not making excuses, and I hope all issues will be resolved."

He pointed out that "placing youth teams in the schedules is difficult," and emphasized that no one can play in the left wing position except Ahmed Abdel Rahim Esho.

He added: "I don't know the reason behind Mahmoud Jihad's recurring injuries, and I am not knowledgeable about medical matters. We are trying to help the player, especially since there is currently no alternative for him in his position."

He confirmed: "Before the matches of the Egypt Capital Cup, there was no defensive problem in Zamalek, but the situation changed in the recent matches due to the absence of key players. As for Ahmed Hamdy, it is difficult for him to participate with the team in the upcoming period."