Al Ahly coach Marcel Koller says their main objective is to secure a victory against Orlando Pirates as they aim to finish at the top of Group C ahead of their CAF Champions League clash at Cairo International Stadium on Saturday (18:00).

The two sides have already booked their places in the quarterfinals of the competition, but supremacy is at stake in what promises to be a high-intensity encounter after they played out to a goalless draw in the first leg at Orlando Stadium.

Jose Riveiro’s men currently sit at the summit of the group with 11 points amassed and a draw will be enough to see them cement their position. Meanwhile, the Egyptian giants are in second place with 10 points and will need a win to topple the Buccaneers.

However, the Swiss mentor acknowledges that ensuring maximum points remain in Cairo against a side that’s yet to lose a match in the group won’t be a walk in the park, although he hopes his charges can do the job.

“I hope it will be a successful match for us, and I know that it will be a difficult confrontation because the opponents played well and are leading the group. They exhausted us at their home ground during the first leg,” said Koller.

Despite being wary of the threat posed by the Sea Robbers, Koller insists the mandate is to dislodge Pirates to reign supreme in the group en route to knockout stages – a feat they achieved once in the last five campaigns.

“Our goal is to achieve victory and top the group, and this is not an easy task at all. But we are preparing very well, and we have a large squad capable of compensating for the absences,” the two-time CAF Champions League winner stated.

The reigning African champions will be boosted by the return of key player Emam Ashour, who has scored six goals in his last three appearances, and Wessam Abou Ali from small knocks, as they are intent on clinching three continental titles in a row.

“We do have many significant injuries, but the quality of our players compensates for the absentees and everyone who participates has the opportunity to present themselves and prove their worth. The match is not easy for us to play with young players or fringe players,” Koller added.

“It is too early to talk about our chances of winning the championship, but the victories are an indication of that. We have won the title twice and we are seeking a third title in a row, but this does not mean that our competitors have fewer chances.

The Soweto giants will draw inspiration from claiming an impressive 4-3 victory the last time they played in Cairo. Overall, Pirates has won twice against the Egyptian powerhouse, with three draws and one defeat as they are set to renew their rivalry for the seventh time.