CAFCL: Al Ahly, Pyramids, And Orlando Pirates Kick-Off Campaign With Classic Victories
Egyptian football clubs dominated in the first round of the CAF Champions League group stages on Tuesday, as Al Ahly began their quest to defend their title in this new installment.
Al Ahly dominated Stade d’Abidjan at the Cairo International Stadium in a six-goal thriller on Tuesday evening, beating the Ivorian club 4-2.
The victory saw the Red Devils begin their defense of the Champions League title in style.
Mahmoud Kahraba was the star of the show, grabbing a brace in the match and consistently being a threat to the opposition’s defense.
Mohamed Magdy and Hussein El Shahat were also on the scoresheet.
Pyramids were also in impeccable form on Tuesday, kicking off their Group D journey with a 5-1 win over Sagrada Esperança at the 30 June Stadium.
Mamelodi Sundowns were held to a goalless draw at the Loftus Versfeld Stadium against Manama Union, getting off to a lukewarm start in the tournament.
With the Brazilians still licking their wounds following their disappointing 2-1 loss to Magesi in the Carling Knockout final over the weekend, a win is what they were looking for but the visitors held on to ensure they kept a clean sheet.
CR Belouizdad hosted Orlando Pirates at the 5 July 1962 Stadium and the Buccaneers powered through with a 2-1 win, courtesy of a brace scored by young sensation Mohau Nkota.
Esperance came out on top over Djoliba with a 4-0 victory as well and Raja Casablanca succumbed to a disappointing 1-0 loss against AS FAR.
TUESDAY RESULTS
TP Mazembe 0-0 MC Alger
Young Africans 0-2 Al-Hilal
Mamelodi Sundowns 0-0 Maniema Union
Al Ahly 4-2 Stade d’Abidjan
Pyramids 5-1 Sagrada Esperança
CR Belouizdad 1 – 2 Orlando Pirates
ES Tunis 4 – 0 Djoliba
Raja Casablanca 0 – 2 AS FAR
