Al Ahly sporting director Mohamed Youssef is anticipating a tough test against Tunisian giants Esperance de Tunis in the quarterfinal of the CAF Champions League.
The Egyptian heavyweights, who are the record holders of the competition are set for a blockbuster clash against the Tunisian giants next month following the draw in Cairo on Tuesday.
Despite acknowledging Espérance threat, the sporting director expressed the side can overcome their opponent to reach the semifinal of the competition.
“Esperance will remain a great team and a perennial contender in tournaments, regardless of the circumstances it is currently experiencing, but it is still capable of competing with its history, championships and fans.”
Esperance has not tasted continental title victory since 2019 when it won the title at the expense of Wydad Casablanca of Morocco.
“I am convinced that Al-Ahly is capable of winning and overcoming the Tunisian obstacle, thanks to the strength of the team and the high-level players it possesses, and under the leadership of a technical staff that has sufficient competence.”
“The team enjoys unlimited administrative support, and above all, the support of a passionate fan base that loves the red jersey, moves mountains, and always makes a difference.”
“The entire system within the club is working to go far in this tournament and win it. Therefore, all requests are being met and all healthy conditions are being provided to create this success, so that Al-Ahly will be able to overcome the obstacle of Esperance in the quarter-finals and continue its journey towards the podium”
The first leg of the quarterfinal has been scheduled for the weekend of March 13-15, 2026, with the reverse fixture slated for March 20-22, 2026.
With tight scheduling across domestic and continental calendars, managing squad rotation, travel and pressure will be crucial over these two legs.
Fans across Africa can now circle mid-March on their calendars as the continent’s premier club competition enters its most dramatic phase yet.
