Al Ahly and Esperance play out goalless draw in first leg of African Champions League final

Holders Al Ahly of Egypt held out for a goalless draw in the first leg of the African Champions League final on Saturday in Esperance, Tunisia, putting them in a strong position for next week's return in Cairo.

Al Ahly hopes to extend their continental club football dominance with a fourth Champions League title in the last five seasons, and a record-extending 12th overall.

They took a defensive approach to the away match at Rades Stadium, limiting their opponents to a single early chance, which Esperance's Brazilian import Rodrigo Rodrigues headed wide of the goal.

It was a sombre encounter with no other opportunities in the match.

This is Esperance's first final appearance since winning the Champions League in 2019. They are vying for a fifth continental title.

The second leg will be played in Cairo next Saturday.

SportsLigue