Ahly defender Mohamed Hany celebrate with his team mates after scoring his side’s only goal during the victory over second-tier side Aluminium in the Egypt Cup round of 32. Photo: Courtesy of Ahly’s official X account.
Defender Mohamed Hany emerged as the hero, netting a crucial injury-time goal that propelled the title holders into the last 16 of the tournament.
Ahly coach Marcel Koller made a bold move by implementing ten changes to his squad, which secured a 2-1 victory over Modern Sport FC in the Egyptian Premier League on Tuesday, with only defender Ramy Rabea retaining his place in the starting lineup.
The Red Devils took control of the game right from the opening whistle, dictating the pace and flow of the match.
However, they struggled to create clear-cut scoring opportunities that could trouble Aluminium's resolute defense.
During the second half, Ahly launched an intensified offensive push in search of a breakthrough.
Regrettably, their forwards' lack of composure prevented them from converting their chances into goals.
With just ten minutes remaining on the clock, the referee awarded Ahly a penalty kick, presenting a golden opportunity to break the deadlock.
Nevertheless, Ahly's Palestinian striker Wessam Abou Ali failed to find the back of the net.
However, in the dying moments of injury time, defender Mohamed Hany stepped up to the occasion, unleashing a decisive right-footed strike from close range to secure victory for Ahly.
In the round of 16, Ahly will face off against Pharco FC, who convincingly defeated Al-Wasta FC with a 3-0 scoreline in the same round.
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