Al Ahly achieved a "killer" victory over Smouha with a goal scored by defender Yasser Ibrahim with a powerful shot in the 87th minute, within the competitions of the third round of the Egyptian Premier League, raising the Red team’s tally to 9 points in second place in the standings, on goal difference behind Pyramids, the leader.
Amouta said during the post-match press conference: "I expected a tough match against Smouha, and unfortunately, the goal was delayed despite our complete control. We did not deal optimally with the available opportunities, but the players' determination and continuous pressure in the final minutes decided the match in our favor, and the most important thing was to seize the three points."
The Moroccan coach added: "The performance was generally good, as we imposed our style with a possession rate exceeding 70 percent, and we created about 13 or 14 clear chances, while our goalkeeper Mustafa Shobeir's goal was not exposed to any significant danger. But we realize our urgent need for offensive effectiveness and to take advantage of opportunities in front of the goal."
Regarding the reasons for the absence of Al-Ahly star Emam Ashour, Ammouta explained that the player needs to undergo more group training to reach the appropriate physical and technical rhythm, after the long period of absence that followed his injury in the World Cup.
He also explained that Imam Ashour might participate with Al-Ahly before the international break at the end of this month.
Imam Ashour has not appeared in Al-Ahly’s matches this season so far, as he was absent against Al-Sharqia, Enppi, Zed and Smouha.
