Algerian club Belouizdad face a mammoth challenge when they host African heavyweights Al Ahly in the TotalEnergies CAF Champions League on Friday.
The postponed Group D clash sees Belouizdad take on the Egyptian giants at the 5 July 1962 Olympic Stadium in Algiers.
With qualification still up for grabs, Belouizdad manager Marcus Paqueta knows his side face a huge test against the continental titans.informationguideNigeria
“The match between Al Ahly and Belouizdad is a derby between two prestigious teams,” Paqueta stated at his pre-match press conference in Thursday.
“We will approach this confrontation with great concentration to secure points, especially since our team is the host.”
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Paqueta stressed the game’s magnitude for both clubs vying for quarter-final berths. But he insisted the result alone would not determine who progresses.
“The game will be tough for both teams, not just for Belouizdad,” outlined the Brazilian coach.
“Both teams will play their last match of the group stage at home, so the result of this match will not be decisive.”
The Belouizdad boss explained his work to fully prepare the Algerians both mentally and tactically for the looming showdown.
“We have a strategy for playing matches, and we aim to win both at home and away, instilling this mindset in the players,” Paqueta remarked.JAMB Portal
He also sent an impassioned plea to Belouizdad ‘s vociferous fans to rally behind the team against esteemed opponents.
“The fans must support us to provide encouragement and motivation to the players on the field,” urged Paqueta.
Setif goalkeeper Alexis Gendouz acknowledged they face a Herculean task against the Egyptian club.
“Victory against Al Ahly will make our mission easier. Our goal is qualification, and we will enter the match with full determination to win,” insisted Gendouz.NYSC Portal
Al Ahly will also be without key man Aliou Dieng due to injury in a further blow for the Cairo outfit.
But make no mistake, conquering African heavyweights Al Ahly represents a monumental challenge for Belouizdad.
Paqueta and Gendouz know flawless focus gives their side the best chance to overcome domestic rivals and reach the Champions League last eight.
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