Sudan’s Al Hilal defeated record winners Al Ahly 1-0 at home in the 2022/23 Caf Champions League on Saturday.
Makabi Lilepo scored the winner in the second half and should have had two but saw his penalty missed.
The victory was massive for Hilal who earned their first victory of the group phase, with Ahly starting off with a loss. This was the Egyptian side’s first group-stage match, having missed the opening weekend due to their involvement in the Fofa Club World Cup.
Ahly was the dangerous side for most of the opening half with Hussein Al Shahat coming close in the sixth minute while Percy tau saw his 33rd-minute effort turned behind for a corner.
Lilepo had Hilal’s closest chance in the opening half two minutes to the break when his shot from the left channel was turned behind for a corner by Mohamed Elshenawy.
The hosts started the second half stronger and were rewarded just 10 minutes after the restart when Lilepo hit the back of the net.
He should have doubled his tally 10 minutes later, but the Congolese forward saw his penalty saved by Elshenawy.
Ahly tried to pile in the pressure, but Hilal defended well.
Ghana duo Ibrahim Imoro and David Abagna both started the game for Hilal. The latter was however substituted in the 80th minute.
The Egyptian Red Devils will now take on group leaders Mamelodi Sundowns next weekend, under pressure to earn maximum points. Hilal will be away to Cotonsport in Garoua.
©Cafonline
