Al Ahly captain reveals what they are banking on against Pirates
Al Ahly captain Mohamed El-Shennawy has revealed what the Egyptian giants are banking on in their blockbuster tie against Orlando Pirates.
The Reds of Egypt are battling to wrap up the group phase campaign with a win and ultimately on pole position.
They host Jose Riveiro and his charges on Saturday in a dead rubber but potential thriller at 6 PM at the usually packed Cairo Stadium.
In Group C, the Soweto giants are on top with 11 points on their tally, while Al Ahly are second with ten points.
Pirates will also be angling to keep the number one spot, by causing an upset in Egypt. Their first CAF Champions League meeting this season ended in a 0-0 draw.
Crucially, Al Ahly skipper El-Shennawy reckons they may have qualified for the quarterfinals, but this Pirates tie is symbolic of a final.
As such, the 36-year-old shot-stopper, says their support base will be a key factor in their bid to outwit Pirates.
EL-SHENNAWY SAYS AL AHLY ARE BANKING ON THEIR FANS ENTHUSIASM
Speaking at a press conference on Friday ahead of the match, El-Shennawy said:
“The match against Orlando Pirates will be very difficult. We are preparing well for the match, and we are ready for it.
“And we know how difficult it is against a strong competitor, and our goal is to win and obtain the group lead.
“Orlando Pirates is a strong team. And has achieved many victories at home and away in the group stage. This means that the match will require a lot of effort and focus.
“We are waiting for the fans to be present in large numbers to support us. And for them to give us enthusiasm and a special atmosphere. We have great confidence in them.
El-Shennawy added: “We, as players, train hard. And the transfers is not within my jurisdiction or Kohler’s [Coach], the technical director’s jurisdiction.
“We only have to work hard on the field and renew our motivation to continue achieving victories. Our goal is always for Al-Ahly to remain in first place, win titles and please its fans.”
The veteran goalkeeper has been one of Al Ahly’s most reliable players for close to a decade.
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