Al Ahly faced a challenging journey to secure their place in the African Champions League final for the second consecutive year. The Cairo-based club, reigning champions of the competition, ultimately overcame Coton Sport de Garoua in a penalty shootout, winning 7-6 after a 1-1 draw in regulation time.
Despite initially taking an early lead in the 2nd minute through Abdalla Said’s header from a Moawad cross, Al Ahly struggled to maintain control of the match and found themselves dominated by the Cameroonian team. Notable saves from Elkramy kept the Egyptians in the game, giving them an advantage at halftime.
Upon returning from the break, Al Ahly continued their quest for the final, having secured a 1-1 draw in the first leg. However, Coton Sport de Garoua, led by Sebastien Desabre, applied pressure and managed to equalize in the 65th minute when Yougouda Kada converted a cross from Kaya. Despite further opportunities, the score remained unchanged, leading to a penalty shootout.
While Abou Treika missed Al Ahly’s first penalty, Yougouda also faltered in the initial rounds. The turning point came when Jacques Haman failed to convert against Elkramy, granting Al Ahly a spot in the final.
Now, Al Ahly will have the chance to defend their title against Orlando Pirates, with the first leg scheduled for November 2 in South Africa and the return on November 9 in Egypt. Orlando Pirates secured their place in the final by defeating Esperance de Tunis, despite being considered underdogs.
