Al Ahly were unable to secure a win in their CAF Champions League group stage clash against Orlando Pirates in South Africa.
The two sides played out a goalless draw in the second round of the group stage, failing to capitalize on opportunities in both halves of the game. This result leaves the Red Devils at the top of Group C on goal difference but tied with the South African side on four points after two matches.
Orlando Pirates: S. Chaine, P. Mako, N. Sibisi, D. van Rooyen, D. Hotto, M. Makhaula, M. Saleng, T. Mbatha, T. Sesane, E. Makgopa, R. Mofokeng
Ahly: Mohamed El-Shenawy, Yahia Attia Allah, Rami Rabia, Yasser Ibrahim, Omar Kamal, Marwan Attia, Akram Tawfik, Emam Ashour, Taher Mohamed Taher, Wessam Abou Ali, Reda Slim
Al Ahly head coach, Marcel Koller, made a few adjustments to his starting lineup, including Palestinian striker Wessam Abou Ali, who returned from injury, and Moroccan midfielder Reda Slim. Emam Ashour also made his comeback after missing recent games.
Orlando Pirates controlled much of the first half, creating several promising chances, but Al Ahly’s goalkeeper Mohamed El-Shenawy denied the hosts on multiple occasions to keep the scoreline level.
In the second half Al Ahly’s performance improved after key changes. Koller introduced Percy Tau, Mohamed Magdy Afsha, and Hussein El-Shahat to add energy to the attack. Despite increased pressure and a few dangerous efforts from Hussein El-Shahat and Percy Tau, Orlando Pirates’ goalkeeper Sipho Chaine ensured the match ended without any goals.
Al Ahly will now turn their attention to the FIFA Challenger Cup, set to take place in Doha on December 14, where they will face the winner of the FIFA Derby of the Americas between Botafogo and CF Pachuca. A victory in this fixture would set up a highly anticipated clash against Real Madrid in the FIFA Intercontinental Cup final on December 18.