The clash marks the 17th meeting between the two African heavyweights, with both sides having five wins each and six draws. The most recent encounter saw Sundowns edge Ahly 1-0 on aggregate in the semi-finals of the 2023 African Football League.
Swiss coach Marcel Koller, guiding Ahly into a sixth consecutive Champions League semi-final, has had to manage a series of injuries in recent weeks. Left-back Yahya Attiat-Allah and Karim Fouad remain sidelined, while striker Wessam Abou Ali's participation remains doubtful.
Ahly are expected to start with Mohamed El Shennawy in goal, shielded by a back four of Mohamed Hani, Rami Rabia, Achraf Dari, and Ahmed Reda. The midfield trio includes Akram Tawfik, Emam Ashour, and Marwan Attia, with Hussein El Shahat, Achraf Bencharki, and Nejc Gradisar leading the attack.
“We are facing a strong opponent on their ground and in front of their fans,” Koller said at Friday’s press conference. “But we are here to fight. The goal is to reach the final.”
Mamelodi Sundowns, under Portuguese coach Miguel Cardoso, will look to continue their dominance at home. The South African champions boast a potent front line featuring Peter Shalulile, Lucas Ribeiro, and Themba Zwane. They qualified for the semi-final after edging Espérance of Tunisia 1-0 on aggregate.
Ahly advanced past Sudan’s Al Hilal with consecutive 1-0 wins in the quarter-finals. Despite their injury concerns, they carry deep squad experience and continental pedigree into the tie.
“We’ve played in South Africa many times. The team is ready,” said Ahly captain Mohamed El Shennawy. “It’s a tough opponent, but we have the experience and motivation to reach the final again.”
The second leg will be held at Cairo International Stadium on 25 April.
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