Al Ahly will look to draw on the power of their home crowd at the Cairo International Stadium when they face Mamelodi Sundowns in the second leg of the CAF Champions League semi-final on Friday.
With the first leg in Pretoria ending 0-0, the tie remains delicately poised heading into the decisive clash.
The 12-time African champions, known for their dominance on the continent, are aiming for another final appearance and will be banking on their formidable home record.
Cairo has long been a fortress for Al Ahly, where the club has consistently produced high-stakes performances under pressure.
Despite Sundowns enjoying 74% possession in the first leg, it was Al Ahly who created the clearer chances. Their closest effort came from a fierce shot that struck the crossbar, underlining the threat they pose even without the ball.
Speaking after the goalless draw, head coach Marcel Koller emphasized the importance of maintaining focus for the return fixture.
“We didn’t allow the opponent to control the game,” Koller said. “We know this tie is far from over. There’s still another half to play, and in Cairo, we must stay fully focused to reach the final.”
Koller also dismissed the significance of possession statistics, suggesting that decisive moments and efficiency will be key in Friday’s encounter.
While Al Ahly have faced criticism over recent performances in domestic competitions and managerial choices, the club has a long-standing reputation for rising to the occasion in continental football.
