Thorup satisfied with Al Ahly’s away draw at FAR Rabat given circumstances
Al Ahly head coach Jess Thorup said he was largely satisfied with his side’s 1-1 draw away to Morocco’s FAR Rabat in the second round of the CAF Champions League group stage on Friday, noting that the match played out exactly as he expected in terms of intensity and home pressure.
The Red Eagles battled to a point at the Complexe Sportif Moulay Abdellah, with both sides creating opportunities to win the game.
“I said yesterday the game would be difficult, and we were fully aware of the challenge here in Rabat. Both teams had chances, and in the end the match finished level,” Thorup told reporters after the match.
He questioned the decision to award a penalty against his team, saying there was “nothing in it,” and criticised what he saw as early encroachment by several players in the box.
The absence of VAR, he added, had a significant impact. “I don’t want to dwell on the refereeing, but there were two clear errors that cost us,” he said.
Thorup said Al Ahly improved markedly after halftime. “Our performance was much better in the second half, and we were close to winning despite the difficult atmosphere. FAR Rabat can get big results at home thanks to their fans. The stadium and atmosphere were fantastic, but I didn’t like seeing bottles thrown on the pitch. It ruins what could have been a great scene and shouldn’t happen.”
The Danish coach insisted he travelled to Morocco looking for all three points. “I came here to win, but sometimes circumstances force you to settle for a point away. The important thing is we didn’t leave empty-handed.”
Thorup also praised the organisation around the fixture. “This is my first visit to Morocco, and I’ve been very impressed with the hospitality, the accommodation and the stadium. The Moroccan people are very welcoming, everything has been perfect.”
He said his focus now turns to the rest of the campaign. “This is one of the toughest groups in recent years, and any team coming here will face the same challenges. My focus is on improving our performance and preparing strongly for the next rounds.”
