The Egyptian giants, who will take on Sundowns in the second-leg of the CAF Champions League round of 16 in Cairo on Friday, have the upper hand after registering a 2-2 draw in the first-leg in Pretoria.

“Obviously Ahli are clear favorites to advance to the group stage after,” Igesund told FilGoal.com.

“The first-leg result is in their favor, and here in Cairo they will be enjoying a lot of support from their fans,” he added.

The South African tactician did however highlight his team’s chances especially that his side proved their worth by abolishing a two-goal deficit to hold the African champions in the first game.

“Ahli’s coach, Manuel Jose, has more than one option to consider,” said Igesund.

“He can either go for an early goal as to play it safe, or resort to defense to protect his first-leg lead, which could put pressure on Ahli.”

The former Ajax Cape Town boss said that he, on the other hand, has no choice but to attack.

“We have no choice but to win to secure qualification.

“The longer the stalemate, the more pressure there will be on Ahli’s players who will be worried about conceding a late goal that would eliminate them,” he added.

Igesund pointed out Ahli’s strength in Mohamed Abou-Treika, Emad Al-Nahhas, Emad Meteb, and Angolan Flavio Amado, who is doubtful for the game.