With the Reds set to resume their journey to defend the CAF Champions League title, our head coach Marcel Koller and our captain, Mohamed El Shenawy spoke to the media today in the pre-match press conference. 

Koller and El Shenawy shared their thoughts on the game against Stade d’Abidjan from Ivory Coast in the opening match of our group stage journey. 

Marcel Koller
"We are expecting a tough match against Stade d’Abidjan. They are a good team with many talented players and of course they want to defeat the title holders." 

“We always play for titles. Every trophy becomes part of our history and the fans always demand more. That’s why we’re never satisfied and always want more.”

“Wessam Abou Ali will miss this match due to injury, but we’re hoping to get him back as soon as possible." 

Mohamed El Shenawy 
“We have big ambitions to defend our Champions League title. We have won many titles and are still hungry for more." 

“Our players have gained great experience from participating in the FIFA Club World Cup several times. We know that our competitors are highly motivated to beat the title holders but we will do our best to have a strong start to the group stage."