FCBARCELONA.CAT

12.06.2009 13:10

Al Ahly, champions of Africa

Jordi Clos

Barça second opponent in the preseason has won the last five Egyptian leagues and is the most successful club in Africa. The sides met once before in an unforgettable game.

After playing Tottenham, Barça’s second opponent in the Wembley Cup will be Al Ahly, on July 26. Founded in 1907, the side has won the last five editions of the Egyptian league and have not lost a game for two and a half years. They were considered the best club in the continent in the 20th century.

Farewell to a legend

However, recent defeat in the round of sixteen of the African Champions League at the hands of Nigeria’s Kano Pillars was a serious setback for the club. Following defeat, charismatic coach Manuel José de Jesús left his post after winning more titles for the club than any previous manager.

Champions

De Jesús’s last success before leaving to take over the Angola national side was leading Al Ahly to its fifth consecutive Egyptian titles. The championship was won in a play-off after the season ended with the club tied on points with Ismaily. In the decider, the ‘red devils’ of Cairo won by a solitary goal scored by Flavio Amado (1-0).

This Angolan striker, along with Mohamed Aboutrika, is one of the big stars of the team.

Historic precedent

Barça and Al Ahly have only met once before. That was on April 24, 2007, when Barça won 4-0, with the highlight being the first team debut that day of Bojan Krkic. Aged just 16 years, the youngster even got one of the goals that day.