Depleted Al Ahly held to a goalless draw in EFA Cup opener

Pitso Mosimane‘s Al Ahly got their EFA Cup campaign off to a slow start as they were held to a goalless draw by El Gouna on Thursday.

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Al Ahly were without a number of their trusted stars, with the majority of them taking part in the 2021 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON).

South Africa international and attacker Percy Tau was also not available for the encounter after testing positive for Covid-19 last week.

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For Mosimane though, this was an opportunity to give as many of his fringe players some minutes under their belts.

Al Ahly still have the chance to turn things around and possibly reach the final as there are five more group games to play.

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WHAT IS EFA CUP AND WHY ARE AL AHLY TAKING PART IN IT?

EFA Cup is an 18-team competition that was initiated by the Professional Clubs Associated (PCA) aimed at helping all the Egyptian Premier League teams to remain active during AFCON.

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The 18 teams have been divided into three groups, with Al Ahly in Group B alongside El Gouna, Ismaily, Smouha, Arab Contractors and NBE.