Defending champions Al Ahly will face Al Merrikh in Cairo on Friday, in match day five of the 2021/2022 CAF Champions League in Group A.
The two sides, who are both on four points halfway through the competition, are six points adrift of leaders Mamelodi Sundowns.
Al Merrikh gave illustrious opponents Ahly a run for their money in their reverse fixture, coming from two goals down to level the score at 2-2 before the Red Devils secured a late 3-2 win.
That victory is what sees the Cairo giants in such a strong position and they will be confident of a repeat in their own back yard.
“We have one goal ahead of us and that is to win tomorrow’s game. It’s normal to work under pressure in football, as we are expected to win the competition we play in,” said the Red Devils coach Pitso Mosimane.
“We are only focused on Friday’s game. We are preparing well for it with the help of our fitness coach, Kabelo Rangoaga, who works very well for the team.
“I prefer to work under the current circumstances with a team like Al Ahly, who is accustomed to winning everything. We have a lot of players with great experiences that are able to deliver the objectives.”
Meanwhile, Al Merrikh are seeking revenge against their opponents in the group stages when the two sides lock horns in Cairo
The Red Crescents from Sudan are looking to bounce back to winning ways after losing to rivals Al Hilal Omdurman in previous group game.
Despite having won once in their first four group matches, the Sudanese giants still have a chance of progressing into knockout stages.
Elsamani Saadeldin remains Al Merrikh’s key man upfront. The lethal forward will look to inspire the Red Crescents to victory on Friday.
