A cliché of a possibility
By
Inas mazhar
More than one hundred thousand spectators are expected to fill the Cairo Stadium to witness the final of the African Champions League Championship tomorrow, when Zamalek -- one of Egypt's powerhouses of the game -- will take on its opponent Rajaa of Casablanca.
It can be assumed that all Egyptians hope Zamalek can live up to their own expectations and maintain their hold over the cup. The likelihood is high given their overpowering win over defending champions Ahli -- Zamalek eliminated them from the championship with an early bye.
For some, the victory seems very near. A goal-less draw in the first leg in Morocco lifted the spirits of both the team and the fans for the final victory. It is not, however, going to be an easy match as critics are clear to announce that the other North African giants are not going to be easy prey. They may have lost a big chance by losing at home, yet it is still a great team with a remarkable history; a fact that makes the team's head coach confident of victory in Cairo. The goal-less draw, he claims, equalises each teams' chance of winning, and he is confident given the team's historic track record of playing stronger away matches.
The coach has a point, and we must not underestimate our opponent. Let us hope that Zamalek's technical staff have recognised this fact, taken it strongly into account, and prepared the team well for the challenge tomorrow. It is not going to be as easy as all fans may think. It may be easier for the guests, but for us, it is a heavy task. While the Lions of the Atlas will be playing with no pressure given that they have already lost a big chance and have, literally, nothing to lose, our players will be playing with much weight on their shoulders. Part of that, of course, is the playing on home turf: aware of the fact that thousands will be watching them at the stadium, queuing from early hours of the day to reserve a precious seat. Millions of others, of course, will be glued to their TV screens.
Tomorrow, all eyes will be focused on the Cup. We cannot afford more losses. As the end of the year approaches, and the New Year nears, the thought of celebration, optimisim, good spirit and success is something the nation as a whole needs. The football field is no exception. Nothing can capture that need better than the African title and its prize money offering of one million dollars, which on many levels, Zamalek is in great need of.
We are half-way to the victory. Let us play with the same spirit, stamina and enthusiasm as we have this far. If we do, and there is no reason why we should not, or cannot, then we will claim the cup. As cliché as it may sound, the mission is in fact possible.
