By: Jeremiah Nutsugah
Ghanaian champions Medeama encountered a formidable test on Saturday night in Cairo, battling intensely but finally falling short against Egyptian giants Al Ahly, who secured a 3-0 victory.
The reigning African champions, Al Ahly, commenced their title defense in the CAF Champions League with an impressive win.
The defending champions initiated the match with an opportunity from their winger, Hussein El Shahat, who lofted the ball over the Medeama goalkeeper but unfortunately struck the crossbar in the 9th minute.
Al Ahly continued to exert pressure, posing another threat in the 16th minute as their striker, Kahraba, attempted a header, only to be thwarted by the vigilant goalkeeper.
The initial half witnessed an exceptional defensive display from the Ghana premiere champions Medeama, effectively holding Al Ahly to a goalless draw.
The visibly frustrated Egyptians struggled to penetrate the resilient Ghanaian defense.
However, the game changed in the second half after Al Ahly broke the deadlock in the 66th minute, courtesy of midfielder Kahraba.
This breakthrough goal lifted the home side’s spirits, paving the way for a second goal from midfielder Hussein El Shahat in the 75th minute.
The comprehensive victory was sealed in the 88th minute as Salah Mohsen scored the third goal, securing a convincing result for Al Ahly at the Al Salam Stadium.
This triumph positions Al Ahly at the top of the group, sharing points and goals with Algerian champions CR Belouizdad, who also claimed a 3-0 victory against Tanzanian side Yanga SC on Friday.
