Reigning African champions Ahli looked en route to securing a precious away win when a trade-mark Mohamed Abou-Treika free-kick gave them a first-half lead, only to be pegged back by a late equalizer from Thabo Matlaba.

Despite the late disappointment, Ahli are still favorites to win a record eight Champions League title as a goalless draw in the return leg next week would suffice to book a berth in the Club World Cup for the second year running.

The second leg is set to take place on November 10 at Arab Contractors Stadium in the presence of home fans.

Treika magic, major controversy and last kick of the game!

Ahli were the determined side from early on and managed to go ahead after just 15 minutes when Abou-Treika curled a delightful free kick that beat the keeper at the near post.

While they calmly cushioned Pirates’ surge for long spells, a moment of sheer controversy denied the Reds a second goal after striker Ahmed Abdul-Zaher’s strike was wrongly ruled offside early into the second half.

Egypt goalie Sherif Ekrami then pulled off a full-stretch save to thwart Andile Jali's rocketing shot from outside the box.

As Ahli looked on course to secure a vital away win, Matlaba managed to frustrate the holders with a dramatic last-gasp leveler when he overcame Ahmed Fathi to hit a low shot past Ekrami with the last kick of the game.