Koller: Al Ahly will give everything to claim 12th African title

Al Ahly head coach Marcel Koller has vowed his side will leave nothing on the pitch as they target a record-extending 12th TotalEnergies CAF Champions League triumph.

The Egyptian giants face Tunisian opponents Esperance in the 2023/24 final, with the first leg taking place in Tunis on Saturday.

Speaking ahead of the highly-anticipated continent showpiece, the Swiss coach acknowledged both finalists were deserving of their place on this stage.

"Al Ahly and Esperance deserve to be in the final. I am happy to face Esperance in this decisive match," said Koller.

"This game is completely different from last season's match. Al Ahly players and the technical staff will give their utmost to win the title."

Koller stressed the importance of his players maintaining full concentration across the full "180 minutes" of the two-legged tie.

"The final requires intense concentration from the players. I always think there are 180 minutes in Radès and Cairo, and our goal is to be the best in both matches to win the title."

The 63-year-old revealed he has watched Esperance "in five full matches" as part of his preparations and was wary of the quality within their ranks.

However, Koller insisted neither side could claim an advantage heading into the final, despite Al Ahly's greater experience at this level.

"Both Al Ahly and Esperance have equal chances in the final. Despite the significant role of experience, football rewards effort on the pitch, and no team has an advantage," he added.

Joining Koller at the pre-match press conference was goalkeeper Mohamed El Shenawy, who spoke of the team's readiness and respect for their Tunisian opponents.

"The match will be tough for both teams. Al Ahly players are preparing strongly for the final matches and are accustomed to the pressure from the fans, especially as these encounters are always different," said the Egyptian international.

"Al Ahly has reached the final for the fifth consecutive time, but the most important thing is to win the current title. We respect Esperance players, who are a great team with a large fan base in Tunisia."

With the anticipation building ahead of the weekend's first leg in Tunis, both teams will be desperate to seize any advantage they can for the decisive return in Cairo next week.