Ahly coach Thorup hails players’ performance, fans’ support after FAR Rabat draw

Al Ahly head coach Jess Thorup lauded his side’s "strong performance" against Morocco’s AS FAR, despite being held to a goalless draw in the final round of the CAF Champions League group stage.

Speaking at the post-match press conference, Thorup revealed he congratulated his players on their display, highlighting that the team finished the group stage unbeaten and successfully secured their primary objective: a spot in the quarter-finals.

Thorup also praised Al Ahly’s supporters, describing the atmosphere in the stands as exceptional and saying he had hoped to reward them with a victory.

“We could have finished the match within the first 20 minutes,” he said.

“The players delivered an outstanding performance, especially Mohamed Ali Ben Ramadan, who gives his maximum effort. I also thank the defenders for keeping a clean sheet. It was very important to produce this level against a strong side that also qualified for the next round.

“The passion in the stands is part of football, and it was crucial that we managed the game safely. My role is to help the players perform at their best. Ieltsin Camões is developing and will provide the required contribution, like the rest of the squad in every position.”

The result leaves the Egyptian side top of the group with 10 points, one ahead of second-placed AS FAR.