Defending champions Al Ahly SC from Egypt are on the brink of further cementing their legacy in African club football as they gear up to face Esperance Sportive De Tunis in the TotalEnergies CAF Champions League Final.
Al Ahly, a powerhouse in African football, will clash with the formidable Tunisian side in the first leg of the final on Saturday evening in Tunis, with the return leg set for Cairo next week.
The Egyptian giants are aiming to clinch an iconic 12th TotalEnergies CAF Champions League title, demonstrating their unparalleled dominance in the continental arena.
The journey to the final has been a challenging yet impressive one for the reigning champions. Al Ahly showcased their championship mettle from the outset, beginning with a commanding performance in the preliminary round against Ethiopian outfit Saint George SC.
The Egyptians swept aside their opponents with a resounding 7-0 aggregate victory, underlining their intent early in the competition.
Drawn into a tough Group D alongside Young Africans, Medeama, and CR Belouizdad, Al Ahly faced stern competition in the group stages.
Despite remaining unbeaten, the defending champions had to settle for draws on three occasions but managed to top the group with 12 points, highlighting their ability to navigate through tough challenges.
In the quarter-finals, Al Ahly encountered another Tanzanian powerhouse, Simba AC. The Egyptians secured a narrow 1-0 away win before sealing the tie with a convincing 2-0 victory in Cairo, advancing confidently to the semi-finals.
Facing TP Mazembe in the semi-finals proved to be a tactical test for Al Ahly. The first leg in Lubumbashi ended in a goalless draw, with goalkeeper Mostafa Shobeir making notable saves to keep the opponents at bay.
However, in front of their home supporters, Al Ahly dominated the return leg with a comfortable 3-0 victory, securing their passage to the final.
Now, with their eyes set on another continental triumph, Al Ahly is poised to deliver against Esperance Sportive De Tunis. The defending champions boast an impressive defensive record throughout the campaign, showcasing their resilience and discipline under pressure.
As Al Ahly embarks on their quest for glory in the TotalEnergies CAF Champions League Final, the stage is set for a compelling clash between two titans of African football.
The Egyptians will look to extend their reign, while Esperance Sportive De Tunis will aim to upset the odds and claim the coveted title. Football enthusiasts across the continent eagerly anticipate the outcome of this thrilling encounter. Stay tuned for the electrifying action unfolding in the CAF Champions League Final.