CAF Champions League final: Al Ahly take the lead against Wydad Casablanca

Despite Al Ahly's early dominance, it was Wydad who created the first scoring opportunity when Bouly Sambou forced Shobeir into a save in the 14th minute.

A penalty initially awarded to Al Ahly in the 29th minute for a handball by Sambou was overturned after VAR review, as the ball had struck the player's head.

Sambou continued to trouble Al Ahly's defense, setting up Yahya Attiat-Allah with a knockdown, but the shot went straight at Shobeir.

Just before halftime, Al Ahly broke the deadlock as Hussein El Shahat reached the byline and found Tau, who expertly headed the ball into the net.

Wydad emerged strongly in the second half, seeking an equaliser. Shobeir saved Aymane El Hassouni's attempt in the 52nd minute, and three minutes later, El Hassouni squandered another chance.

However, Al Ahly extended their lead near the hour mark when Kahraba scored his sixth goal of the tournament from close range, courtesy of an El Shahat assist.

Tau remained a threat from the right flank, providing Kahraba with an opportunity that was saved by the Wydad goalkeeper.

Nonetheless, Wydad managed to reduce the deficit in the 86th minute when Sambou inadvertently deflected a cross to Saif-Eddine Bouhra, who brilliantly finished, offering his team hope for the second leg.