"I was out of my mind with worry before the game," the promising youngster told Dream TV on Saturday.

"We were not allowed to switch on our mobiles but I needed to call my mother.

"I went to the bathroom to call her and her words of encouragement eased my tension and helped me perform well."

Emam was named man of the match after putting in an impressive display in Zamalek's goalless draw with Ahli in Thursday's Egyptian Premier League game.

He gave Ahli defense hard time before being substituted midway through the second-half with a thigh strain.

Inexperienced

The 20-year-old's lively performance was marred by a scuffle with Ahli's veteran midfielder and Egypt skipper Ahmed Hassan on the stroke of halftime.

But Emam admitted that his lack of experience resulted in him losing his temper.

"Hassan kicked the ball away in front me in a provocative way, that's why I was infuriated," he said.

"But I'm inexperienced, I shouldn't have reacted like that. I apologized to Hassan and the matter ended.

"Zamalek assistant coach Mahmoud Saad advised me to stay calm whatever happens."

Emam also said he would like to wear the number 14 shirt, which was worn by his namesake and Zamalek legend Hazem Emam.

"I will be very happy if I wear that number," he concluded.