Mostafa Gaafar has apologized to Zamalek fans for deliberately skipping the team's trip to Abidjan to face ASEC Mimosas in the CAF Champions League. The out-of-favor striker infuriated Zamalek officials by declining to take part in the African encounter, which Zamalek subsequently lost 3-0. Gaafar was involved in a dispute with Zamalek board over his unpaid bonuses. But the 27-year-old, who is mainly used as a substitute by Zamalek coach Reiner Hollmann, said he regretted his actions. "I hope Zamalek fans will accept my apology," Gaafar told the club's official website on Friday. "I was subjected to fierce pressure that affected my actions, but I promise that I will do my best in the upcoming period to help Zamalek get back on track." The Cairo giants' hopes of reaching the Champions League semis were heavily dented following the embarrassing defeat against ASEC. Zamalek need to beat arch-rivals Ahli on September 14th if they are to stand a chance of booking a last-four berth.
