Al Ahly goalkeeper Mohamed Elshenawy has described Tuesday’s CAF Champions League quarter-final second leg against Al Hilal Omdurman as nothing less than a final, underlining the high stakes and intensity surrounding the tie.
The Egyptian giants head into the crucial encounter knowing that even a draw would be enough to send them through, thanks to the away-goals rule following the 1-1 stalemate in the first leg.
However, Elshenawy made it clear during a pre-match press conference that his team is not planning to take any risks or rely on calculations.
“Every match is like a final for us,” said the veteran shot-stopper.
“I don’t think we’ve been at our best lately. In the first leg against Al Hilal, we created a lot of chances, but luck wasn’t with us.”
Al Ahly’s performance in the first leg was marked by attacking intent, but a lack of clinical finishing prevented them from securing a stronger advantage.
Now back on home soil, the Red Devils are determined to deliver a performance that reflects their ambitions in Africa’s premier club competition.
Despite their marginal advantage, Elshenawy insisted that complacency is not an option.
The 36-year-old acknowledged that the team’s recent displays have fallen short of expectations, but believes that the opportunity to progress in the Champions League will bring out the best in the squad.
Head coach Marcel Koller echoed this sentiment during his own media briefing, stressing the importance of focus and execution in high-pressure situations.
While the Swiss tactician has the comfort of a home crowd and a favourable result, he knows full well that Al Hilal remains a dangerous opponent with the capability to overturn the tie.
The match, set to kick off at 7 p.m. GMT, will be a test not just of tactics and talent, but also of mental resilience.
Al Ahly, with their rich history in continental football, understand the expectations that come with wearing the famous red shirt.
And for Elshenawy and his teammates, Tuesday’s match represents another chapter in their quest to reclaim African glory.
“For us, it’s not just about getting through,” said Elshenawy. “It’s about making our supporters proud and showing the kind of spirit that defines Al Ahly.”
