My target is to win the Champions League – new Zamalek coach Pacheco

Portuguese coach Jaime Pacheco has already announced his aspiration of claiming the ultimate African club football prize, as he begins his second spell as coach of Egyptian powerhouse Zamalek Sporting Club.

Already five-time champions of African football, Pacheco believes the side at his disposal will be capable of a sixth title.

Pacheco, who previously guided Zamalek between October and December 2014 succeeds Frenchman Patrice Carteron, who resigned suddenly earlier this month to join Saudi side Al Taawun.

“I came back to Egypt because I love Zamalek. My target is to win the Caf Champions League”, the Portuguese told the reporters upon his arrival.

Pacheco (62) had numerous spells at home, most prominently with Boavista which he led to the Portuguese Premier League title in 2000/2001. He also had spells with Mallorca (Spain), Al Shabab (Saudi Arabia), Beijing Guoan and Tianjin Teda (China).

Zamalek currently lie second in the Egyptian Premier League (EPL) table this season. Zamalek will face Morocco’s Raja Club Athletic in the 2019/2020 African Champions League semifinals scheduled on October 18.

The EPL resumed on July 25, with matches played behind closed doors. With four games remaining, Zamalek’s bitter rivals Al Ahly have already claimed the title. Al Ahly have 79 points from 30 games and unassailable 18-point gap over Zamalek.

The battle for the second also appears to be close to decided, with Zamalek on 61 points – seven ahead of Pyramids on 54 from 29 games.

In partnership with ANA and Sports Leo