CAF Champions League: Esperance to host Al Ahly in return leg without

Esperance Sportive de Tunis have confirmed that their upcoming CAF Champions League quarter-final second-leg clash against Al Ahly will take place at Cairo International Stadium behind closed doors, with no fans permitted.

The Tunisian club announced the decision in an official statement on their Facebook account, emphasizing that the restriction follows a directive from the Disciplinary Committee of the Confederation of African Football (CAF).

According to the club, the decision to hold the match without spectators comes in line with CAF regulations and disciplinary rulings, aimed at maintaining order and ensuring the smooth conduct of the fixture.

“Esperance Sportive de Tunis informs its fans that the second leg of the quarter-final match of the African Champions League, which will bring together our team with Al Ahly of Egypt, scheduled for March 21 at Cairo International Stadium, will be held without the presence of the public.”

“This comes as a result of the decision issued by the Disciplinary Committee of the Confederation of African Football, which stipulated that the match be held without the presence of fans.”

The first leg of the quarter-final is set to take place in Tunisia on Sunday, March 15, kicking off at 9:00 PM. The return leg in Cairo will follow on Saturday, March 21, at 9:00 PM.

Both clubs are preparing rigorously for the two-legged encounter, which carries significant weight in determining who advances to the semifinals of Africa’s premier club competition.

Esperance, who have a rich history in African football with multiple CAF Champions League titles, are expected to field their strongest squad despite the absence of fans, while Al Ahly, one of Egypt’s most decorated clubs, will look to leverage their home advantage in front of an empty stadium.

CAF’s ruling underscores the organization’s strict enforcement of regulations for high-profile matches, reflecting ongoing efforts to maintain security and fairness in continental competitions.

The fixture has already generated intense interest across North Africa, with both teams boasting passionate fanbases. While supporters will be unable to attend in person for the second leg, clubs are expected to provide extensive media coverage and live broadcasts to allow fans to follow the action.

The outcome of these matches will be pivotal in shaping the remainder of the 2026 CAF Champions League campaign, with the semifinals just a step away for the victors.