The CAF Champions League is the only trophy missing in the cabinet of the Nigerian forward since he moved to Egypt, and he is determined to change that story on Friday
For the first time, the final of Africa’s premier club competition will be played as a single match at a venue pre-selected by CAF, and Nigeria’s Junior Ajayi is focused on helping Al Ahly beat fierce rivals Zamalek at the Cairo International Stadium on November 27.
Rio Olympics bronze medalist Ajayi has enjoyed a brilliant spell at Al Ahly, winning four consecutive league titles, the Egyptian FA Cup, and two Egyptian Super Cup honours since he joined the Egyptian side from Tunisia’s CS Sfaxien in 2016.
But the 24-year-old has suffered the disappointment of being on the losing side in two successive Champions League final and is hoping he could be third time lucky on Friday.
“We’re very happy we won the league, which gives us confidence ahead of the coming games,” the former Nigeria youth international told FIFA.
“We’re only focused on the continental title and will do our best to claim it.”
A notorious big-game player, Ajayi is notable for scoring in important matches for Al Ahly. Last year, the forward scored twice against Friday’s opponents in the Egyptian Super Cup.
Ajayi expects a difficult game against Zamalek, but the former Shootings Stars ace is looking to be the game decider for his club.
“I expect a good game from both sides,” he added.
“The two teams know each other very well, and Zamalek are among the toughest teams I’ve faced. I’ve lost two finals against them, and it wasn’t a good feeling.
“I love to play in big games because it highlights your capabilities as a player.
“I’ve been lucky in scoring against big teams, and I feel very happy when I do this.
“I want to score more goals and hope to win the Champions League, because it’s the only title I still haven’t managed. I hope we can do it because our fans love this tournament so much,” Ajayi concluded.
