Al Ahly stars Imam Ashour is looking forward to taking on Argentina icon Lionel Messi at the FIFA Club World Cup tournament.
The Egyptian powerhouse have been put in Group A alongside Inter Miami, Porto, and Palmeiras. They will play the opening match of the World Cup against Inter Miami on Sunday, June 15.
And Ashour in an interview with FIFA expressed that the prospect of facing Messi in the World Cup group stage opener excites him.
“I’m very excited to play against the best player in the world. I’m confident in our ability to achieve an achievement worthy of our name and Al Ahly’s.”
“We look forward to the support of the entire fan base. Their presence gives the match its true meaning, and without them, it loses much of its value. My message to them is that we need them to stand with us and support us, as we have always done in all matches and tournaments.”
“I am very excited to compete on these courts. Tournaments like these represent an opportunity every player looks forward to, to participate and shine.”
Meanwhile, Ashour is said to be suffering from a slight adductor muscle strain and is unlikely to participate in the opening game.
Al-Ahly is preparing to face Mexico’s Pachuca in a friendly match in preparation for the Club World Cup.
Al-Ahly held two training sessions after arriving in the US in preparation for the tournament.
Ashour participated in 39 matches last season, scoring 19 goals and making 9 assists.
