Ahly eager to defend CAF CL title by triumphing over Stade d'Abidjan: Koller

Mahmoud Elassal , Monday 25 Nov 2024

Ahly's Swiss coach Marcel Koller declared on Monday that his team are focused on defending their CAF Champions League title as they gear up for the start of the group-stage matches.

Koller

 

The Reds will face Stade d'Abidjan from Cote d’Ivoire in Tuesday's opening round of Group C fixtures, alongside Algeria's Belouizdad and South Africa's Orlando Pirates.

"We find fulfillment in winning titles as our team is hungry for more success," Koller expressed during the pre-match press conference.

"I am pleased to kick off the group stage as the title holders. We anticipate a challenging match against a talented opponent with skilled players in their ranks," the Swiss coach added.

"Backed by our supporters, we are prepared to secure victory against Stade d'Abidjan," he affirmed.

Ahly will continue to be without the services of Palestinian striker Wessam Abou Ali due to an instep injury.

"Wessam Abou Ali will be absent from tomorrow's match due to his injury. I do not have information on his return date, but I am hopeful for his swift recovery," Koller noted.

"Wessam has been a key figure for us, contributing significantly to the team with his performances. However, we have other players of exceptional quality," the Ahly coach emphasized.

"I trust that Wessam's absence will not have a negative impact against Stade d'Abidjan," he added.

Having clinched their record-extending 12th Champions League title, Ahly is now eyeing their 13th title this season.

"We are a renowned team accustomed to lifting trophies, with fans always looking ahead to the next title even before celebrating the most recent one," Koller pointed out.

Stade d'Abidjan secured their spot in the Champions League group stage by defeating Milo FC of Guinea 3-2 in the preliminary round.

"I have observed Stade d'Abidjan's matches, understanding that every team aims to win or at least secure a draw. Our objective remains winning the title," Koller reiterated.

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