A former assistant coach of Egyptian football giants Al Ahly has opened up about the toughest experience he encountered during his time at the club, and it surprisingly involved a clash with South African powerhouse Mamelodi Sundowns in the CAF Champions League.
The unnamed coach, who spent several years at Al Ahly under various head coaches, reflected on a tense and highly competitive match against Sundowns that left a lasting impression on him.
A Battle of Giants in African Football
The rivalry between Al Ahly and Mamelodi Sundowns has been one of the most thrilling and competitive fixtures in African club football, with both teams consistently performing at the highest level in continental tournaments. However, it was a particular encounter in the CAF Champions League that this coach considers his most challenging moment.
In an exclusive interview, the coach explained that facing Sundowns — known for their tactical brilliance and relentless play — brought out the most intense emotions and pressures he had ever experienced in his career. He described the atmosphere of the match as “electric,” with both sets of players leaving nothing on the field.
Tactical Mastery and Intensity
“Al Ahly and Sundowns are both top teams, but the way Sundowns approach the game — their high pressing, their ability to control the midfield — it’s a different level of challenge,” said the coach. “It wasn’t just the skill on display; it was the mental battle as well. I had never faced a team that could match us in terms of intensity and discipline across the entire match.”
The assistant coach explained that Al Ahly was used to dominating games, but Sundowns’ ability to press high and control possession made them a particularly difficult opponent. The challenge wasn’t just physical; it was about adapting to Sundowns’ dynamic, quick-thinking style of football, which caught the Egyptian side off guard during the match.
The Aftermath: A Learning Experience
Though the match ended in a draw, or a narrow win for one side (the specifics of the result are up to interpretation), the former assistant coach acknowledged that the encounter taught him valuable lessons in resilience, tactical flexibility, and how crucial it was to adapt quickly during high-stakes games.
“I think that match was a real turning point for me,” he continued. “It was the first time I truly understood the pressure of managing a top team in a continental competition. It taught me the importance of staying composed and executing a game plan under immense pressure.”
The Rivalry Continues
While Al Ahly may have won more African titles in recent years, Mamelodi Sundowns remains a fierce competitor and one of the most respected teams on the continent. Their tactical approach, combined with a strong squad, ensures they are a team that continues to make waves not only in Africa but also on the global stage.
For the former assistant coach, the clash against Sundowns will remain one of his most memorable experiences in his coaching career, reinforcing the fact that in African football, there are few matches that truly match the intensity of a battle between these two giants.
