Al Ahly SC secured their place in the 2025/26 CAF Champions League quarterfinals following a hard-fought 0–0 draw against JS Kabylie at the Stade Hocine Aït Ahmed on Saturday evening.
Entering the Matchday 5 fixture as Group B leaders, the Egyptian giants needed only a single point to mathematically ensure their progression.
Despite a relentless offensive display from the Algerian hosts, the “Red Devils” utilized their vast continental experience to navigate a hostile atmosphere and maintain their unbeaten streak in the group stage, effectively ending JS Kabylie’s hopes of advancing.
The match began with high intensity as JS Kabylie, buoyed by a capacity home crowd, sought to avenge their 4–1 defeat in Cairo earlier this season.
The “Canaries” dominated the opening half-hour and nearly broke the deadlock in the 20th minute when striker Aymen Mahious saw his thunderous strike rattle the post.
Al Ahly’s defensive resilience was tested further when they lost talismanic forward Mahmoud “Trezeguet” Hassan to an injury midway through the first half.
Forced to adjust their tactical approach, manager Jess Thorup’s side shifted into a disciplined defensive block, prioritizing structural stability over attacking flair to neutralize the threat posed by JSK’s pacy wingers.
In the second half, Al Ahly goalkeeper Mohamed Shobeir proved instrumental, producing two world-class saves to deny late efforts from the Algerian side.
While JS Kabylie controlled possession, Al Ahly expertly managed the tempo, frustrating the hosts and winding down the clock.
The final whistle confirmed Al Ahly’s ascent to 9 points, a tally that guarantees them a top-two finish in Group B regardless of the results in the final round of matches.
