The title holders are set to face Belouizdad at the 5 July Stadium on Friday, with the Algerian side will be eager to win to keep their hopes alive in the continental competition.

Despite Ahly's resounding 6-1 victory over Belouizdad in their encounter in Cairo on December 22, Koller acknowledged the hosts' determination to bounce back, fueled by their home crowd and the pressure to revive their campaign.

"Belouizdad are a strong team and created many problems for us in the first half of the previous match," Koller said during the pre-match press conference. "They will be eager to bounce back, fueled by the pressure of their current group position and the passionate support of their fans. Matches are different, and this one will be played on small details."

However, he sent a warning to his players against complacency, insisting that the first-leg result should not breed overconfidence.

"Leniency is not something that Ahly players can tolerate. I spoke with the players about the matter, and we will not be tempted by the result of the first leg," Koller noted.

Moreover, Koller expressed confidence in his squad's depth and adaptability, particularly given the tight match schedule and injury concerns.

"We have a squad of 32 players at the same level. Injuries are expected, but I continually discuss this with the players to maintain high standards worthy of Ahly," he said.

He also reaffirmed Percy Tau's importance to the team amid departure rumours, stating, "Percy Tau is an Ahly player and is still part of our plans for the future."

The Red Devils are currently atop Group C with seven points and a victory in Algeria would significantly strengthen their lead on the group and take them another step closer to qualifying for the knockout stage, while third-placed Belouizdad will be desperate for a win to revive their hopes in the competition.

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