Al Ahly Clinches Top Spot in CAF Champions League Group

Al Ahly secured the top spot in their CAF Champions League group after triumphing over Young Africans with a 1-0 win on Friday evening. Bafana Bafana forward Percy Tau retained his spot in the lineup which saw four changes including Akram Tawfik, Rami Rabia, Marwan Ateya, and Ahmed Kouka.

The match kicked off with an open play, with an early chance for Yanga’s Aziz Ki saved by Al Ahly’s goalkeeper Oufa Shobeir. The Red Devils had their opportunity as well, with Mohamed Abdelmonem narrowly missing a header in the box.

As the game progressed, chances came for both teams. Just before halftime, Pacôme Zouzoua attempted a breakthrough for Young Africans, matched by a save from Shobeir. Similarly, Anthony Modeste‘s header for Al Ahly was kept out by Yanga’s goalkeeper Djigui Diarra.

Al Ahly made a strong start in the second half, with Hussein El Shahat finding the back of the net a minute from the break after combining with Ali Maaloul. Despite a spirited response from Young Africans, Shobeir stood firm in goal, denying multiple attempts on target.

With 15 minutes left in the game, Marcel Koller made strategic substitutions, introducing Taher Mohamed and Wessam Abou Ali for fresh energy in the attack. As the final whistle approached, Reda Slim came on for Percy Tau as Al Ahly managed to maintain their lead and secure the top spot in Group D.

Al Ahly finished the group stage four points ahead of Young Africans, remaining unbeaten and already qualified for the quarter-finals. The match showcased a display of resilience and tactical prowess from both sides, with Miguel Gamondi’s Young Africans putting up a commendable fight against the Egyptian giants.