Al Ahly goalkeeper Mohamed El Shenawy has expressed confidence that his side can overturn their defeat against Esperance when the teams meet again in Cairo in the second leg of the CAF Champions League quarter-finals.
The Egyptian club suffered a narrow loss in Tunisia in the first leg of the tie, but the captain insisted that the team’s performance still gives them belief ahead of the decisive match.
Speaking after the game, El Shenawy said the players remained determined to recover the deficit and secure qualification in front of their home supporters.
Goalkeeper Reflects on Match Performance
El Shenawy acknowledged that Al Ahly produced a strong display during parts of the match, particularly in the opening half, even though they were unable to secure a positive result.
“We were good in the first half, and in the second half we declined a little, but thank God we still have a second half in Egypt, and God willing we will come back in the result and advance from Cairo.”
The goalkeeper suggested that the team experienced fluctuations in performance as the game progressed but still believed the overall display showed commitment and effort from the players.
Team Spirit Remains Strong
Despite the setback, El Shenawy praised the determination shown by his teammates during the encounter.
“Today the players did what they had to do, and there was spirit throughout the match. In the first half we were good, and in the second half we went through different periods, and in the end we played a good match.”
His comments highlighted the sense of unity within the squad as they prepare for the decisive stage of the tie.
Al Ahly, one of Africa’s most successful clubs, now faces the challenge of reversing the result when they host the Tunisian side in the return leg.
Reaction to Travel Arrangements
El Shenawy also addressed the team’s preparations for the match, including adjustments made to the travel arrangements before the game in Tunisia.
“We accepted the administration’s decisions and the change in the travel program to Tunisia before facing Esperance. We played one match and we still have another match ahead of us, and we have a goal that we are working towards.”
The goalkeeper suggested that the squad remained focused on the broader objective of progressing in the competition, regardless of the circumstances surrounding their preparations.
Focus on the Return Leg
Looking ahead to the second leg, El Shenawy emphasised the importance of the upcoming match in Cairo, describing it as a crucial opportunity for the team to secure qualification.
“We have a tough match in Cairo, and the players know the importance of the match and the importance of qualifying, and God willing, we will advance from Egypt.”
The decisive encounter is expected to be a major test for both teams, with Al Ahly seeking to capitalise on home advantage and overturn the first-leg result.
For El Shenawy and his teammates, the focus now shifts entirely to the return fixture, where the Egyptian side hopes to deliver a performance strong enough to keep their CAF Champions League campaign alive.
