The Egyptian giants enter the tie on a concerning three-match winless streak, including a recent 3-1 defeat to El Geish in domestic competition, as they pursue an unprecedented third consecutive continental title.
Al-Hilal, forced to play their home matches in Mauritania due to civil war in Sudan, arrive in confident mood after topping Group A and winning four of their last five matches across all competitions.
“Al-Hilal have had good results away from home and are a tough opponent, but we’re focused on reaching the semi-finals,” Ahly coach Marcel Koller told reporters on Monday.
Koller has named a 23-man squad and can welcome back Moroccan pair Yahya Attiat-Allah and Achraf Dari, who missed the final group-stage matches. Omar Kamal, who has been with a muscle injury, returns to continental action for the first time since Round 3, while January signing Nejc Gradisar, who has made a significant impact since his arrival, could make his Champions League debut.
Ali Maaloul, who have just returned after a lenghty spell, has been left out while forward Taher Mohamed Taher has yet to regain full fitness after a knee injury last November.
Despite finishing second in Group C behind Orlando Pirates, Ahly remain among the tournament favourites as they chase a 13th Champions League crown.
Al-Hilal coach Florent Ibenge was respectful of the opposition’s pedigree. “Facing Ahly is like playing a final, they’re strong even when they aren’t at their best,” he said.
The Sudanese side has shown remarkable resilience this season, qualifying for the quarterfinals with two matches to spare while competing in their 24th consecutive Champions League campaign despite the challenges of relocation.
Al-Hilal captain Mohamed Abdelrahman highlighted his team’s determination: “We overcame the obstacle of not being able to play in our beloved homeland because we are warriors.”
The two clubs have met 12 times previously in the competition, with Ahly winning five, Al-Hilal three, and four draws. Their most recent encounters came in the 2022-23 group stage, when both sides exchanged home victories.
Koller is expected to field a front line of Achraf Bencharki, Wessam Abou Ali, and Hussein El Shahat as Ahly seek a strong first-leg advantage.
The return leg will be played on 8 April in Nouakchott, Mauritania, with the winner advancing to face either Esperance Tunis or Mamelodi Sundowns in the semifinals.
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