Al Ahly’s Thorup enjoys winning start with 1-0 victory over Aigle Noir in CAF Champions League

Al Ahly opened the CAF Champions League campaign with a 1-0 victory over Burundi’s Aigle Noir in the first leg of their Round of 32 tie at Inwari Stadium in Bujumbura on Saturday.

Despite playing away from home, Al Ahly dominated from the outset, pressing Aigle Noir relentlessly.

Head coach Jess Thorup made no significant changes to the lineup, but the players showed renewed intensity and determination throughout the match.

The Red Eagles took the lead nine minutes before halftime thanks to an own goal.

Right-back Mohamed Hani sent in a powerful cross from inside the box, which Aigle Noir defender Kanyamukenge Nicolas inadvertently deflected into his own net.

Thorup was forced into an early change after Mohamed Sherif sustained a muscle injury just before the break. Sherif was replaced by Nejc Gradisar at halftime.

Aigle Noir started the second half with more possession and a stronger presence in midfield, but they failed to create any real threats on Ahly’s defense.

Thorup made a tactical shift with 15 minutes remaining, introducing Aliou Dieng, Mohamed 'Afsha' Magdi, Taher Mohamed, and Ahmed Abdel-Kader.

The substitutions helped Ahly regain control, but Abdel-Kader’s effort, after a cross from the left wing, was blocked by Aigle Noir's defense.

The hosts pushed for an equalizer in the final minutes, but Al Ahly’s solid defense held firm, securing a 1-0 win in the first leg.

The second leg match will take place in Cairo on Saturday, 25 October.