The Red Eagles came from behind at Félix Houphouët-Boigny Stadium to secure a 3-1 win over Stade d’Abidjan in Matchday 5 of the CAF Champions League group stage. 

Despite the odds being against us even before the game kicked off when Akram Tawfik suffered an injury during the pre-match warm-up and was replaced by Ahmed Nabil Koka, and then trailing at halftime, a dramatic second half, led by Emam Ashour, whose hat-trick turned the game around, secured three important points for the Reds.

The match began with Al Ahly pushing forward and creating several opportunities, though none found the back of the net. In the 26th minute, the hosts struck when Saint-Jean Kore fired a shot to give Stade d’Abidjan a 1-0 lead at halftime.

In the second half, the Eagles came out with full focus and determination. Their relentless attacks paid off in the 53rd minute when Wessam Abou Ali headed the ball toward the goal, and Emam Ashour was quick to follow up and slot it into the net, making the score 1-1. 

The Reds continued to push and create chances, and in the 73rd minute, Khaled Abd El Fattah delivered a pinpoint cross that Emam headed into the net, giving the Reds a 2-1 lead.

As the match drew to a close, Al Ahly remained in control, and once again, Emam stepped up in stoppage time to complete his first hat trick for the club, after firing a fantastic shot sealing off a 3-1 victory.

As well as being a convincing win, the match saw the return of our defender, Mohamed Hany, after recovering from an injury that kept him sidelined since September. 

Post-match Reactions

Marcel Koller

“Our only goal was to win. Despite the difficult weather conditions, injuries, and missed opportunities, the players gave their all to secure the victory.”

“Stade d’Abidjan were stronger at home, but we were better in the second half and turned the game in our favor.”

Emam Ashour

“It was a tough match with many absences due to injury, but the team’s spirit and determination made the victory possible.”

“Since joining Al Ahly, I’ve given my all to help the team win. We will keep fighting for victory in every match.”

Mohamed Hany

“I’m happy to be back and even happier with our victory over Stade d’Abidjan. Earning these three points is important for our journey in the CAF Champions League.”