Orlando Pirates and Al Ahly are set to clash in a crucial CAF Champions League group stage encounter that echoes a memorable 2013 showdown. Both teams have already secured their place in the knockout round, but the top spot in Group C is at stake.
Orlando Pirates and Al Ahly are set to clash in a crucial CAF Champions League group stage encounter that echoes a memorable 2013 showdown. Both teams have already secured their place in the knockout round, but the top spot in Group C is at stake. The Sea Robbers currently lead the group by a single point and a draw against the Red Devils at the hostile Cairo International Stadium would be enough to secure the top position.
Pirates, who remain unbeaten in the CAF Champions League, are considered among the competition's favorites, but this weekend's match against Al Ahly presents their biggest challenge yet. The history between these two giants is rich and dramatic. Back in 2013, they also faced each other in the final group stage match, drawing 0-0, which ultimately saw both teams advance to the semi-finals. The Buccaneers went on to defeat Esperance in the semi-finals via an away goal, while Al Ahly edged past Coton Sport on penalties. The final saw a nail-biting encounter reminiscent of this season's build-up. The first leg ended in a 1-1 draw, with Thabo Matlaba's late equalizer canceling out Mohamed Aboutrika's memorable opening goal at the Orlando Stadium. However, Al Ahly claimed victory in the second leg, played at Cairo, with a 2-0 triumph, denying Orlando Pirates their second star. This season's matchup shares striking similarities with the 2013 campaign. If both teams manage to avoid a mid-season slump, we might witness a captivating replay of the 2013 CAF CL final.
CAF Champions League Orlando Pirates Al Ahly 2013 Replay Top Spot
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