Al-Ahly surprised everyone by suffering an unexpected defeat from Orlando Pirates 2-1 at Cairo International Stadium, in the last round of the group stage of the African Champions League.
Perhaps this loss heralds a new potential coronation of Al-Ahly, as Orlando previously defeated the Red Giant in the group stage in 2013 with three clean goals, then they met in the final and the Egyptian club won the title at that time.
Due to the defeat this season, Al-Ahly qualified as runner-up in its group, meaning that it will face one of the top teams in the other groups in the quarter-finals.
Al-Hilal of Sudan qualified as the leaders of Group A, while Pyramids qualified from first place in Group D, outperforming Esperance on goal difference.
Thus, Al-Ahly can either face its compatriot or Sudanese brother, or the leader of Group B (Morocco’s Royal Army or Mamelodi Sundowns), which will be determined on Sunday.
The quarter-final draw, which will determine Al-Ahly’s opponent and path to the final match, is scheduled to take place in February or early March at the latest.
As for the quarter-final matches, they will be played in late March and early April 2024.
It is worth noting that Al-Ahly is the title holder of the last two editions of the African Champions League, and the most crowned with the title throughout history in 12 previous times.
