Highlights: Pitso Mosimane’s Al Ahly beats Wydad Casablanca in CAF Champions League
South African born coach Pitso Mosimane picked his first CAF Champions League win with Al Ahly they saw off Wydad Casablanca in the semi-final first leg.
The legendary former Bafana Bafana coach managed a personal milestone of winning in Morocco, having drawn there with Sundowns in 2016.
Mosimane had not won in North Africa in five attempts.
Al Ahly are in a position to win the title a record nine times since lifting African club football’s most coveted trophy in 2013.
Magdy Afsha capitalised from a schoolboy mistake by Wydad’s defence as he calmly slotted in the bottom left corner
The victory could not have been secured without the heroics of their skipper Mohamed El Shanaway’s who made a double save from a first-half penalty after he tripped down Wydad striker Magby Gbagbo in the box.
Pitso said he is very happy about the result but felt the goals were not enough as they missed chances, including a one versus one opportunity in the second half only to be denied by the goalkeeper.
“I’m very happy with the result but I would have been happier if we had scored more goals,” Pitso said.
“This is a special victory for the players, technical staff, officials, employees and supporters of Al Ahly,” the South African told AFP.
He said they travelled with respect for Wydad, knowing how dangerous their opponents can be especially at home.
Pitso also praised his captain and goalkeeper for saving the penalty and giving them a chance to win with a clean sheet.
“When we were awarded a penalty I had great faith in Ali (Maaloul) because he is so cool, confident and skilful when it comes to scoring from the spot.
“Football is a funny game and we dare not take anything for granted despite this wonderful result. It is half-time in the semi-final and we hold a two-goal advantage,” Pitso said.
Watch the video of the highlights of Wydad versus Al Ahly below:
Highlights: Pitso Mosimane’s Al Ahly beats Wydad Casablanca in CAF Champions League