Al Ahly will face Ethiopian Coffee, live today on Sunday April 8th 2012 at 19:00 (EET) Egypt Time, the match will be live on Nile Sports.
Al Ahly are playing their first official match on home soil since 1 February, when scores of their supporters were killed in clashes with rival Masry fans in Port Said Stadium.
Because of security concerns about possible trouble between fans, the Red Castle had no choice but to play their decisive African game behind closed doors in the military stadium at 19:00 CLT.
The Reds must beat Ethiopian Coffee to clinch the round-16 qualifying ticket, as the away match in Addis Ababa ended in a goalless draw.
Portuguese coach Manuel Jose is optimistic after he was able to prepare midfielders Walid Soliman and Mohamed Barakat and defender Hossam Ghaly, all of whom had been doubtful after sustaining minor injuries earlier. Barakat is now likely to play as right winger after Ahmed Fathi was ruled out due to a knee surgery.
The attacking midfield line will play an important role today and Jose is depending on his star trio – Mohamed Abou-Trieka, Mohamed Nagi “Geddo” and Brazilian Fabio Joniour – to use the short passes.
The visitors’ coach Obato is in an easier position, as the draw helps the Ethiopians and, as he said, “half of Ahly’s power comes from their fans, who they will miss.”
Live Al Ahly vs Ethiopian Coffee
Match time: 19:00 (EET) Egypt time
