Al Ahly begin CAF Champions League group stage campaign against JS Kabylie

Al Ahly are set to face Algeria’s JS Kabylie on Saturday in the first round of the CAF Champions League group stage at Cairo International Stadium. Kick-off is scheduled for 6:00 p.m. (GMT+2), with full stadium capacity allowed after Egyptian security authorities approved Al Ahly’s request.

Coach Jess Thorup named a squad that includes the return of midfielder Emam Ashour and wingers Mahmoud Hassan “Trezeguet,” and Ahmed Sayed Zizo, all fully recovered from injuries.

“We are fully focused on the match. We’ve worked hard to prepare and we’re starting a new phase in the Champions League. This game is very important for us,” Thorup said at Friday’s pre-match press conference.

“I always hope to see as many fans as possible because their presence gives us huge motivation and helps us achieve the best results,” he added.

Al Ahly secured their place in the group stage after defeating Burundi’s Aigle Noir 2-0 on aggregate in the second preliminary round.

The 12-time African champions have been drawn into Group B alongside Tanzania’s Young Africans, Morocco’s AS FAR, and Algeria’s JS Kabylie.