Ahly, Esperance boast surprise stars ahead of final showdown

CAF Champions League finalists Al Ahly of Egypt and Esperance of Tunisia boast amazing defensive records ahead of the second leg in Cairo today, with goalkeepers Mostafa Shobeir and Amanallah Memmiche the unexpected stars.

Most African football pundits believe the goalless first leg confirms Ahly as favourites to win a record-extending 12th Champions League title in 17 final appearances. But Koller, who is chasing an eighth Egyptian or African trophy since joining the African titans two years ago, disagrees ahead of a second leg set to be watched by a sell-out 75,000 crowd.

"Ahly and Esperance have equal chances of success. We may have more experienced African campaigners, but only what happens on the pitch counts. Naturally, our goal is to win at home and retain the title," he told reporters.