Rabat, Morocco – (African Boulevard News) – In a nail-biting encounter, record winners Al Ahly managed to secure a 0-0 draw with Moroccan side Raja Club Athletic to advance to the semi-finals of the TotalEnergies CAF Champions League for the sixth time in a row.
The first half of the match saw both teams struggling to break the deadlock. Al Ahly seemed to have the upper hand with several decent attempts on goal, but Raja Club Athletic’s defense remained steadfast, not allowing Al Ahly to capitalize on their opportunities.
The second half was much of the same, with both teams displaying admirable defensive tactics. However, towards the end of the game, Raja Club Athletic upped the ante, but Al Ahly’s goalkeeper Mohamed El-Shenawy had other plans, thwarting Raja’s efforts and securing the all-important draw for his team.
Al Ahly manager Pitso Mosimane praised his players for their hard work and resilience in a post-match interview. He said, “We knew this was going to be a tough match, and we came prepared. Raja is a formidable team, but we managed to hold them off, and that’s a testament to the character of my players.”
This draw means that Al Ahly, who have won the TotalEnergies CAF Champions League a record of ten times, will progress to the semi-finals to face Esperance de Tunis.
Esperance de Tunis qualified for the semis after a superb 3-1 victory over MC Alger, in which they displayed an attacking masterclass.
Commenting on the upcoming challenge against Esperance, Mosimane said, “Esperance is a quality side, and we’ll have to be on our game to beat them. However, we are Al Ahly, and we don’t fear any team. We are going to prepare well and give it our all.”
This year’s tournament has seen fierce competition as teams battle it out for the coveted Champions League title. With Al Ahly and Esperance de Tunis set to meet in the semi-finals, fans can expect a thrilling game from two of the continent’s football giants.
