Horoya a tough test for Al-Ahly
FORMER CHAMPS CHASE A NINTH TITLE
Injury-hit Egyptian club Al-Ahly are set to tackle Guinea’s Horoya in a Caf Champions League quarterfinal second-leg match in Cairo today. Back from a first-leg goalless draw in Conakry last weekend, The Red Devils are hoping to reach the last four of Africa’s premier club competition at the ElSalam Stadium.
The former African champions are looking to extend their record to a long-awaited ninth title, having last conquered the continent in 2013.
“We will forget everything regarding the first leg,” Ahly coach Patrice Carteron told CAFOnline. com as his side prepared for today’s fixture.
“The return leg is totally different, and now we have to win and qualify for the semis. We played the first-leg in difficult circumstances and a draw was acceptable, though of course, we had planned to win there.”
But the Frenchman is facing a tough situation, especially in defence.
Mohamed Naguib, who replaced injured team-mate Saad Samir, picked up a knee injury and is out for the season after undergoing surgery.
Samir himself is a doubt, with midfielder Amr Elsoleya still absent. Nigerian prolific striker Junior Ajayi is also injured and will miss the rest of this campaign.
“We will do our best to find suitable replacements for the absentees, and I’m positive anyone who plays will give his best for the team.
“All we need to do is focus on the game and we should not underestimate Horoya who are a very good team. They are a young side and I believe they have a great future”, added Carteron, who led DR Congo’s TP Mazembe to the title three years ago.
Losing finalists last year, Ahly could set-up a thrilling replay date with title-holders Wydad Athletic Club in the semifinals. The Moroccans host Algeria’s ES Setif on the back of an away 1-0 defeat.
The winners on aggregate of both encounters will face each other in the semifinals in October. – ANA