Al Ahly coach Marcel Kohler is urging focus and intelligence from his players as they start their group phase campaign of the TotalEnergies CAF Champions League on Saturday against unfamiliar foes Medeama.
The Swiss trainer starts his first match in the group phase this season by warning Al Ahly cannot underestimate Ghanaian side Medeama in Cairo despite limited information.
After guiding Al Ahly to recent successes, Kohler knows overcoming Medeama would provide early momentum before facing giants Belouizdad in Group D.
Medeama represent unknown entity African opponents determined to shock more illustrious names. It makes Saturday’s opener fraught with danger if Al Ahly are not fully focused.
“I told the players they must be serious from the very beginning against an opponent who’ll be extremely motivated playing away in this competition,” Kohler noted.
With key players absent after recent international duty, maintaining intensity amid disruptive scheduling poses another test.
But by capitalising on vociferous home support, Kohler feels Al Ahly can strategically overcome whatever surprise Medeama produce.
“We must be smart in how we manage this threat and use the advantage of our fans backing us,” Kohler stated.
Navigating assorted obstacles on opening weekend would put early pressure on Medeama while reinforcing Al Ahly’s favouritism to defend the crown they seized last season.
