The first team of Al-Ahly football club has arrived in Johannesburg, South Africa, on Wednesday, April 16, 2025, after a long flight on a private plane. The team is gearing up to face Sundowns in the semi-finals of the African Champions League. The delegation, led by Mohamed El-Demati, a member of the board of directors, touched down after a brief stop in Nairobi, Kenya, to refuel before proceeding to Pretoria, where the match will be held.
In preparation for this crucial match, Al-Ahly is scheduled to hold its first training session on Thursday, April 17, 2025, at 3 PM local time on the training field in Pretoria. This training is a vital part of their strategy as they aim to secure a strong performance against the formidable Sundowns.
The semi-final match between Al-Ahly and Sundowns is set for Saturday, April 19, 2025, at 3 PM in Johannesburg. Al-Ahly’s path to the semi-finals has been impressive, having successfully navigated past Al-Hilal of Sudan in the quarter-finals. They won the first leg in Cairo with a score of 1-0 and managed to hold off Al-Hilal in the second leg, winning by the same margin in Nouakchott, Mauritania.
Al-Ahly's head coach, Swiss manager Marcel Koller, has selected a squad of 23 players for this high-stakes encounter. The lineup includes key players such as goalkeeper Mohamed El-Shenawy, defenders Mohamed Hany and Rami Rabia, and midfielders like Mohamed Magdy "Afsha" and Amr El-Soulia. The forward line features talents such as Wisam Abu Ali and Geradichar, all of whom will be crucial in the battle against the South African side.
As the match approaches, the atmosphere is charged with anticipation. Al-Ahly fans are hopeful for a strong showing, particularly given the historical rivalry between the two clubs. The team’s performance in this semi-final will not only determine their fate in this year’s Champions League but also bolster their reputation on the continental stage.
In a related note, the Egyptian embassy in South Africa welcomed the Al-Ahly delegation upon their arrival, emphasizing the significance of this match for both the team and the nation. The embassy’s presence underscores the support that Al-Ahly enjoys from its home country as they embark on this critical journey.
As the players prepare for their first training session, the focus will be on tactical drills and team cohesion, essential elements for success against a strong opponent like Sundowns. The South African team is known for its robust home advantage, making this training session even more crucial for Al-Ahly’s preparations.
Fans and analysts alike are keenly watching how Al-Ahly adapts to the challenges posed by Sundowns, especially in terms of their defensive strategies and attacking options. The upcoming match is not just a game; it is a testament to Al-Ahly’s resilience and determination to reclaim their position at the top of African football.
In conclusion, as the countdown to the semi-final begins, the excitement continues to build. Al-Ahly’s journey in the African Champions League is far from over, and their upcoming clash with Sundowns is set to be a thrilling encounter that fans won’t want to miss.
