Ahly advanced to the semifinal after a dominant 3-0 victory over Asian champions Al-Ain in October, claiming the African-Asian-Pacific Cup title, thanks to goals from Palestinian striker Wessam Abou Ali and midfielders Emam Ashour and Mohamed "Afsha" Magdi.

The African champions are determined to avenge their 2008 FIFA Club World Cup quarterfinal defeat to Pachuca, where the Mexican side overturned a 2-0 deficit to win 4-2 in extra time.

Beyond revenge, victory would grant Ahly a shot at the inaugural FIFA Intercontinental Cup title, where they would face Real Madrid in the final, a team they are eager to challenge again after a 4-1 loss in the 2023 FIFA Club World Cup semifinal, in which the Cairo giants went on to finish third in that tournament.

However, despite their vast experience in FIFA Club World Cups—featuring nine times and securing third place on four occasions—Ahly coach Marcel Koller urged caution.

"We have the experience for these matches, but we must deliver a strong performance on the pitch," Koller said during the pre-match press conference on Friday. "We’re up against a strong opponent, as seen in their previous game. Experience alone won’t guarantee victory."

The 64-year-old tactician coach acknowledged Pachuca’s impressive victory in their previous match, but expressed confidence in his team’s ability to progress to the final. “Pachuca look sharp, but we’re aiming to win and reach the Intercontinental Cup final to face Real Madrid.”

Koller has a full squad to choose from, boosted by the return of top scorer Wessam Abou Ali from injury. He will be hoping talismanic midfielder Emam Ashour can rediscover his form after a recent dip.

On the other hand, Mexico’s Pachuca reached the semifinal after a resounding 3-0 win over Copa Libertadores champions Botafogo on Wednesday.

Second-half goals from Oussama Idrissi, Nelson Deossa, and Salomon Rondon secured the victory for the reigning CONCACAF Champions Cup holders.

The FIFA Intercontinental Cup final against Real Madrid is scheduled for Wednesday at Lusail Stadium in Doha.

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