Al Ahly head coach Marcel Kohler has revealed why his charges struggled to get victory in their 1-1 CAF Champions League draw against Young Africans (Yanga SC) at Benjamin Mkapa Stadium on Saturday.
It was Taher Mohamed Taher equaliser that rescued a point for the North African giants but according to Kolher the extreme heat and humidity played a key role in the outcome of the game. “Things improved in terms of possession and threat despite the temperature which made it very tough,” said the Swiss after the game as quoted by CAFOnline, adding: “We should have remained calm to preserve the win but I’m satisfied considering the tough circumstances.”
The introduction of substitutes helped turn the tide back in resilient Ahly’s favour just when the hosts scenting a second straight success. “The bench made the real difference today. We had two clear chances – one in each half – after the changes,” stated Kohler.
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Veteran Amr El Sulaya’s calming midfield presence particularly pleased Kohler on his welcome return from injury alongside lively attackers Taher and Karim Fouad. With Group D intriguingly poised, the battling Red Devils will welcome regaining early ground after slipping three points behind early pacesetters CR Belouizdad.