The Egyptian giants, Al Ahly, secured a crucial advantage in their quest for CAF Champions League glory after edging out Tanzania’s Simba SC 1-0 in the first leg of their quarter-final clash on Friday evening.
Played at a packed Benjamin Mkapa Stadium in Dar es Salaam, the encounter lived up to its pre-match billing as a tight and tense affair.
The eleven-time champions and record holders of the competition took an early lead through Ahmed Kouka on the 4th minute.
Both sides displayed strong defensive organization thereafter, making clear-cut chances a rarity throughout the game.
Simba pressed hard for an equalizer in the latter stages, but the resolute Al Ahly defense held firm to secure a vital away victory.
This win puts Al Ahly in a strong position heading into the second leg at the Cairo International Stadium which has become a fortress and a difficult ground for opposing teams.
The return leg promises to be another enthralling encounter as both teams battle for a place in the CAF Champions League semi-finals.