Ahly coach Al-Badry upbeat about chances against Chelsea

Accra, Aug. 16, GNA – Head coach of Egyptian giants, Al Ahly, Hossam Al-Badry has expressed optimism of carrying the day ahead of his clash in this weekend's CAF Champions League clash against Ghana's Berekem Chelsea.

Ahly, six-time winners of the premier continental Club Championship, breezed into town on Thursday afternoon for the crucial day four clash with their Ghanaian counterparts billed for Sunday at the Accra Sports Stadium.

Al-Badry told GNA Sports on arrival at the Kotoka International Airport that they are fired up for the encounter, which, he said they need at least a point to book their place at the semi final stage.

“It will be a difficult match but we are looking forward to a convincing result to confirm our place at the next round.

“Chelsea has a strong team with youthful players who have a lot of energy,” said Al-Badry.

Ahly, 4-1 victors in the reverse fixture a fortnight ago in Cairo, leads the pack in Group B with the maximum nine points, but Al-Badry who enjoyed an illustrious nine-year playing career with the Egyptian giants insists there is more to play for in the day four encounter.

“We are at the top of the group but we have not qualified yet. We still have to play very well against Chelsea to move to the next stage.”

Whilst Ahly will be comfortable with at least a point, Berekum Chelsea must cough out a win to boost their chances of advancing to the next round.

Berekum Chelsea has four points, same as TP Mazembe of DR Congo whilst five-time winners Zamalek, also of Egypt are pointless in that order.

GNA