Egyptian Club, Al-Ahly secured a 3-0 victory over Mazembe on Friday night to qualify for a fifth consecutive CAF Champions League Final.
With the first leg ending in a goalless draw, the anticipation for the return fixture in Cairo was palpable. Al Ahly supporters braced themselves for a potential defeat when Joel Beya’s 58th-minute header appeared to put Mazembe ahead, only for VAR to disallow the goal due to an earlier infringement.
Nevertheless, Marcel Koller’s side showcased the poise and skill that has defined them as a dominant force in African club football over the past decade. Mohamed Abdelmonem’s powerful header broke the deadlock in the 68th minute, followed by late goals from Wissam Abu Ali and Akram Tawfik, completing a thrilling turnaround.
As Tawfik netted Al Ahly’s third goal in the 12th minute of stoppage time, the stadium erupted into ecstatic celebrations, with the team sealing a final showdown with Tunisian powerhouse Esperance.
For Al Ahly, this victory underscored their prowess in high-stakes matches, fueling their quest for a fourth TotalEnergies CAF Champions League title in five years. Spearheaded by the relentless Percy Tau, the 11-time champions displayed resilience, determination, and skill, ensuring Egyptian football’s representation in the upcoming final.
While Mazembe’s disappointment was palpable, having narrowly missed out on a final berth, Al Ahly’s late surge served as a poignant reminder of their ability to triumph in dramatic fashion. As they strive to maintain their dominance in African club football, the men from Cairo march forward, their grip on the coveted prize unyielding.
