Mosimane’s achievements in less than two years at the helm were finally rewarded as Ahly granted him a two-year contract extension, which the South African boss has long sought to remain fully focused on the tasks ahead of him.
Since Ahly slumped to a surprise 1-0 loss at home to Sundowns last month, they have chalked off three consecutive wins — two in the domestic league and one in the Champions League.
They secured comprehensive 4-1 and 3-0 wins over Pharco and challengers Pyramids FC in the domestic league respectively to move two points clear on top of the table and with a game in hand.
They also survived a spirited comeback from Sudan’s Al-Merreikh to secure a late and vital 3-2 victory which helped them get their Champions League campaign back on track following a disappointing opening to their Group A campaign.
Ahly, who are looking to become the first team to win a hat-trick of consecutive Champions League crowns, now have four points, on level with Sudanese duo Al-Hilal and Al-Merreikh, who have both played a game more. Sundowns are on top with seven points.
A win for Ahly on the road would put them in pole position to qualify for the knockout phase.
Sundowns will virtually secure their place in the last eight if they claim all three points, but coach Manqoba Mngqithi has cautioned against the threat Ahly are likely to pose.
Starting line-ups:
Sundowns: Kennedy Mweene, Khuliso Mudau, Thapelo Morena, Lyle Lakay, Brian Onyango, Mothobi Mvala, Andile Jali, Haashim Domingo, Themba Zwane, Peter Shalulile
Ahly: Mohamed El-Shennawi, Karim Fouad, Mohamed Abdel-Moneim, Yasser Ibrahim, Ali Maaloul, Hamdi Fathi, Aliou Dieng, Amr El-Sulaya, Magdi Afsha, Percy Tau, Mohamed Sherif
