Al Ahly kicked off their CAF Champions League campaign with a 1–0 away victory over Burundi’s Aigle Noir in the first leg of the Round of 32.
Newly appointed head coach Jess Thorup stuck with a familiar starting XI and was rewarded with a winning performance. Al Ahly dominated from the first minute of the game and took the lead nine minutes before the break through an own goal by Aigle Noir defender Nicolas Iragi.
However, the Cairo giants were forced into a halftime change after striker Mohamed Sherif picked up a muscle injury and was replaced by Nejc Gradisar.
Aigle Noir started the second half with more possession and energy in midfield, but failed to test Mohamed El Shennawy, who had little to do between the sticks.
Jess Thorup turned to his bench in the closing stages, introducing Aliou Dieng, Mohamed Magdi Afsha, Taher Mohamed, and Ahmed Abdelkader to regain control.
Abdelkader came close to doubling the lead, but his effort from the left flank was blocked by the home team’s defense.
In the fying moments of the game, Al Ahly absorbed pressure as Aigle Noir pushed forward, but the Red Devils held firm to secure the away win.
The return leg will be played in Egypt on Saturday, 25 October. Al Ahly will be looking to seal passage to the group stage as they continue their pursuit of a record-extending 13th CAF Champions League title.