In a thrilling encounter held at the Al Salam Stadium, Al Ahly emerged victorious with a resounding 3-0 triumph over Ghana’s Medeama in their first group match of the 2023 CAF Champions League.
All three goals were netted in an action-packed second half as the Red Devils maintained pressure and created more scoring opportunities throughout the game.
It was a baptism of fire for the Ghanaian champions, who had travelled with hopes to cause an upset in Egypt.
After a tense and goalless first half, both teams returned to the pitch with renewed determination. The breakthrough for Al Ahly came in the 66th minute when, from forward, Mahmoud Kahraba connected a well-placed cross from Emam Ashour at the left flank
Building on their momentum, Al Ahly continued to press forward and create opportunities. It was in the 75th minute that midfielder Hussein El Shahat capitalized on a defensive error, seizing the chance to double Al Ahly’s lead with a clinical finish.
Kahraba initially struck the ball, but Medeama goalie Felix Kyei made a remarkable save, only for El-Shahat to follow up and double the hosts’ lead.
With a comfortable two-goal advantage, Al Ahly displayed their dominance and maintained control of the match, frustrating their opponents’ attempts to mount a comeback. However, their hunger for goals remained evident as they relentlessly pushed for a third.
In the dying moments of the game, Al Ahly sealed their victory with a spectacular header from Substitute Salah Mohsen in the 88th minute. His teasing header from talented midfielder Mohamed ‘Afsha’ Magdi’s cross left Medeama’s goalkeeper rooted to the spot as the ball found the back of the net.
The convincing 3-0 win has set a strong foundation for Al Ahly’s campaign in the 2023/24 CAF Champions League group stage. The team’s clinical performance and ability to capitalise on scoring opportunities reflect their determination to reclaim the coveted continental trophy.
They now sit at the top of Group D with three points, level with Algeria’s Chabab Belouizdad, who defeated Young Africans of Tanzania on Friday.
As the tournament progresses, football fans eagerly anticipate Al Ahly’s next encounters, as they aim to maintain their winning streak and cement their status as one of the frontrunners in the 2023 CAF Champions League. Meanwhile, Medeama will regroup and look to bounce back from this defeat in their upcoming matches, determined to make their mark in the prestigious competition.
The 2023 CAF Champions League promises to deliver more thrilling matches and fierce competition as Africa’s top clubs vie for continental glory.
