Jess Thorup questions lack of VAR as Al Ahly prepare for AS FAR clash

Al Ahly coach Jess Thorup expressed surprise that VAR will not be used in his team’s CAF Champions League group match away to AS FAR Rabat, stressing that video technology has become essential for fairness in high-level games.

He said he does not know why it is absent but underlined his respect for the refereeing system and insisted his side must focus on their own performance.

Speaking in the pre-match press conference, Thorup praised the warm reception in Morocco and the quality of the training facilities, noting that Al Ahly made a strong start to the group with a 4-1 win over JS Kabylie in Cairo. He explained that the main goal now is to continue that momentum by delivering a powerful display and securing another positive result against AS FAR.

Thorup added that all players in the travelling squad are ready and that dealing with pressure is part of Al Ahly’s identity, especially in big continental fixtures. For him, managing the mental side of the game is as important as tactics, and the focus is on handling expectations in a way that helps the team win.

Winger Mahmoud Hassan Trezeguet echoed his coach’s words, thanking Moroccan fans for their hospitality and insisting that Al Ahly always enter matches with one objective: victory. He highlighted the strength of Moroccan football and the special flavour of facing AS FAR, pointing out that the presence of Moroccan players in Al Ahly’s squad gives the encounter added spice.

Trezeguet said the squad is used to intense pressure and has the experience to cope with difficult atmospheres, while still showing full respect to AS FAR and their passionate supporters. He also praised former teammate Reda Slim as a top player who gives the Moroccan side extra attacking power and helps turn their home stadium into a fortress.

Al Ahly completed their final training session in Rabat on Thursday evening, with Thorup holding several team talks at the hotel to motivate the players and refine tactical details.

The Egyptians top the group after their opening win, while AS FAR are looking to respond after losing 1-0 away to Young Africans, adding extra edge to Friday’s clash.