CAF: Goalkeeping prodigies Memmiche and Shobeir in the spotlight ahead of Final

As Al Ahly and Esperance de Tunis prepare to lock horns in the TotalEnergies CAF Champions League final, a fascinating subplot has emerged - the rise of two goalkeeping prodigies who have been instrumental in their respective sides' journeys to the showpiece event.

For 20-year-old Amanallah Memmiche of Esperance and Al Ahly's 24-year-old Mostafa Shobeir, the two-legged final, starting on Saturday, represents a grand stage to showcase their burgeoning talents and cement their status as Africa's next goalkeeping sensations.

Memmiche, in just his second season with the Tunisian giants, has already etched his name into the club's folklore, playing a pivotal role in their pursuit of a fifth Champions League crown.

His performances have been nothing short of remarkable, with Esperance keeping a staggering nine consecutive clean sheets since last conceding in December.

"Esperance has a well-organised defence and they can shut Al Ahly's attack down," beamed an Esperance supporter when his club reached this year’s final.

"In ten games since the group stage, we have been able to keep nine clean sheets with Memmiche leading the way with spectacular saves."

On the opposite end of the pitch, Shobeir has emerged as an equally formidable force, stepping into the sizeable gloves of injured Al Ahly captain Mohamed El Shenawy with aplomb.

The young Egyptian has kept six consecutive clean sheets in the Champions League, underlining his credentials as a worthy heir to his father Ahmed Shobeir's legacy.

"Mostafa Shobeir has been doing great in our matches and has distinguished himself so far in this competition," praised Al Ahly's Swiss coach Marcel Koller.

Shobeir's performances have not gone unnoticed by the man himself, who remains grounded despite the growing acclaim.

"My father sends me one word before matches (Have fun), in order to motivate me to perform well," he revealed.

"I hope to continue the legacy of my father, Ahmed Shobeir, on the field. I understand that some people compliment me at times, but I seek to respond on the field."