The Egyptian powerhouse, Al Ahly, made a resounding statement in their Champions League campaign, sealing a dominant 3-0 victory against Ethiopia’s Saint George in the initial leg of the Round of 32.
Hussein El-Shahat emerged as the pivotal player, marking the scoreboard twice during the match. His goals in the 29th and 58th minutes set the tone, while a last-minute goal by Ahmed Abdel-Kader solidified their commanding lead.
The duel, originally slated for a home-and-away format, took a twist as it unfolded entirely in Cairo, following a request by the Ethiopian side.
Ahly’s offensive vigor was evident from the outset. El-Shahat's early attempt came close, followed by Mahmoud Kahraba's shot that narrowly missed the mark. The deadlock was eventually broken by El-Shahat, who fired a magnificent curler into the net in the 29th minute.
The Red Devils pressed on, with Mohamed Abdel-Moneam almost doubling the lead, only to see his shot drift wide.
Post-interval, Ahly’s intensity didn’t wane. Close attempts by Rami Rabie and Emam Ashour kept the Ethiopian side on their toes. While Mahmoud 'Kahraba' missed a seemingly simple chance, El-Shahat was on point, netting his second with a sharp strike from distance.
Coach Marcel Koller, sensing a need for fresh legs, introduced changes, with Mohamed 'Afsha' Magdi, Salah Mohsen, and Mohamed Dhaoui entering the fray. They replaced Emam Ashour, Mahmoud 'Kahraba' Abdel Moneam, and the star, El-Shahat. Further changes saw Ahmed Abdel-Kader and Ahmed Nabil come in for Percy Tau and Marwan Atteya.
Despite their attacking onslaught, it was Abdel-Kader who put the final touch, scoring in stoppage time.
With the rematch also scheduled in Cairo, Ahly stands on the brink of sealing their spot in the Champions League group stages.
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