CR Belouizdad president Mehdi Rabehi has acknowledged the challenges of facing Al Ahly in the CAF Champions League group stage.
CR Belouizdad secured their place in the group stage after eliminating Burkinabe club AS Douanes. The two teams drew 1-1 on aggregate, with Belouizdad ultimately prevailing 4-3 on penalties.
The Algerian club has been placed in Group C alongside reigning African champions Al Ahly, South African side Orlando Pirates, and Ivorian team Stade d’Abidjan.
This marks the second consecutive year that Al Ahly and CR Belouizdad find themselves in the same group. Last season, the two teams drew both of their matches 0-0.
Speaking to MBC Masr after the draw, Rabehi remarked: “The group is very difficult, and it is always special to play against the reigning champions, Al Ahly.
“All games are tough. African football is evolving, and the competition to qualify for the quarterfinals will be very challenging.”