Percy Tau on the cusp of Champions League history

Al Ahly talisman Percy Tau could make CAF Champions League history when the Egyptian giants take on Wydad Casablanca in the second leg of the 2023 title decider this evening. 

All eyes will be on Tau, who scored in the first leg to ensure Al Ahly secure a 2-1 win at the Cairo International Stadium last Sunday.

The man popularly known as ‘The Lion of Judah’ is roaring. He has been in scintillating form in front of goal in the premier continental club competition.

Tau has proven to be an important player for Al Ahly with five goals and five assists in 11 Champions League matches this season. The 29-year-old is among the top goal-scorers in the Champions League as he is in third place. 

He is a goal behind teammate Mahmoud Kahraba and Mamelodi Sundowns striker Peter Shalulile, who are both on six goals. In addition, Tau also has the most goal assists in the competition. 

His splendid form comes after a struggle with niggling injuries resulting in a dip in performance several months ago. 

The former Brighton star is on the verge of adding his name to the history books should Ahly lift its record 11th Champions League title on Sunday. 

PERCY TAU ON THE VERGE OF HISTORY

Should the Cairo side win the clash set to be staged at Stade Mohammed V in Casablanca [21:00], Tau will become the first South African player to clinch the Champions League twice. He first won it in the 2015/16 edition with Mamelodi Sundowns.

Tau, who has earned a Bafana call-up for the AFCON against Morocco later this month will be eager to get his name on the scoresheet once again. He is one of coach Marcel Koller’s trusted soldiers in the Ahly camp. 

With a 2-1 lead, Koller’s men need to avoid defeat to be crowned club champions. However, as far as history is considered, Al Ahly will have to dig deep in Casablanca. The Cairo side has lost their last two Champions League finals against Wydad. 

The Moroccan giants beat Ahly 2-1 on aggregate in the 2017 final and they whey were comfortable 2-0 winners in last year’s decider.

Koller said his troops including Tau, the first SA player to compete in three Champions League finals are ready for a fierce battle.

“All the players are well-prepared for the game. We are happy to play in front of several fans. The players are highly motivated,” he said. 

“We won the first leg. So we have the upper hand as Wydad’s goal did not change the result.

“Wydad’s fans won’t take part in the game. And they won’t affect our performance. But they will only support their team.”

“Our players have the experience on how to deal with the crowd. They previously played in front of 60,000 fans or more in different matches. 

“I hope that the match will be held in a healthy and fair atmosphere. It will be in accordance with FIFA rules, especially regarding refereeing.”

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