By James Copnall In Cairo

Senegalese champions Jeanne d'Arc hope that the inspiring performance of their national team at the World Cup can spur them on to a good performance in the Champions League.

A victory over African club champions Al Ahly in Saturday's game would put them in good stead for a semi-final ticket.

"We need to carry on from where the Lions left off in the summer," says Jeanne d'Arc captain Kalidou Sissokho, the only Senegal-based player to go to the World Cup.

But they face a stiffer challenge than the one the Lions had when they played France in their World cup opening match.

Poor record

The team is made up of amateurs and has no training ground of its own.

With the distinct lack of playing facilities, it is no wonder that they have made no impact in continental club competitions.

When Jeanne d'Arc reached the group stages of the Champions' League in 2000 they did little to upset the established order.

Oumar Seck, the club's president, admits that the club has to do better this time.

"We have an obligation to get a result here to show that the national team is not an anomaly and that the clubs are part of the same upwards movement."

Foreign tour

In preparation for the Champions League, the Senegalese had a 17-day training camp in France.

Winning three games out of four, Jeanne d'Arc's players believe they're in fine form for a continental challenge.

"We feel in shape," said team captain Kalidou Sissokho.

"The camp has really helped - we worked really hard to prepare for all we will have to do this season."

Abba Kone, a Malian international, agrees with his colleague.

"We played against different teams with different styles, and it is always good to meet foreign teams - you learn so much."

"We will be able to give our best against Ahly, and get the best possible result."