Egypt's Ahly Coach Confident Ahead Of Esperance Clash

While acknowledging that a victory over Tunisian side Esperance will not be an easy task, Ahly coach Hossam El-Badry nevertheless expressed confidence in his team's abilities.

The Red Devils are currently preparing to host the Tunisian giants in the first leg of the African Champions League final at Alexandria's Borg Al-Arab Stadium on 4 November.

The coach hopes his team can achieve positive results ahead of the return leg it Tunisia on 18 November.  

"We're looking for a good result ahead of the second leg to get a step closer towards the title," El-Badry told Reuters on Sunday.

"We're totally focused on our task. The first leg will not be easy, but we will do our best to win to avoid pressure in the away game," he added.

Egypt's interior ministry, meanwhile, has agreed to allow fans to attend Ahly's scheduled clash with Esperance, marking the end of an official ban since February's Port Said stadium disaster.

"We missed our fans for a long time and I think they will motivate us to win Sunday's match," said the Ahly coach.

Ahly are currently eying their first continental triumph since 2008, while Esperance are hoping to clinch a second consecutive Champions League title.

"We have the ability to compete for the title, and I promise our fans that we'll get it," concluded El-Badry.

Ahly reached the final after a 4-3 aggregate victory over Nigerian guests Sunshine Stars.

Title-holders Esperance secured their place in the final after eliminating formidable Congolese side Mazembe.