Cairo Stadium-Osama Khairy: Ahli coach Manuel Jose said he was proud of his players after their 'precious' 2-0 win over JS Kabylie in the African Champions League quarter-finals on Saturday. The African champions overcame the numerous injuries within their ranks to rout their Algerian opponents in Cairo. "I am very proud," Jose told reporters after the game. "Most of the players played out of position, yet managed to do very well." Two first-half goals from Ahmed Sedik and Osama Hosni gave Ahli a 2-0 victory over the Algerian powerhouse. The Egyptian giants are now back in contention after having lost their opening Group A match against Sfaxien Tunisia on July 16th, a defeat that ended their two-year unbeaten record in African competitions. All four clubs are now tied on three points after Ghanaian powerhouse Asante Kotoko beat Sfaxien, a result that boosted Jose's confidence. "Our policy is to win regardless of the circumstances," the Portuguese manager said. "It's too early to say we have qualified to the semi-finals," he said. "But if we do manage to qualify in these circumstances (several injuries), then I believe we have a good chance in retaining the title."
Jose feels proud Jose did however note that the absence of key-players like Mohamed Abou-Treika, Emad Meteb and Mohamed Barakat does eventually affect Ahli's performance negatively. Jose's opposite number at Kabylie, Jean-Yves Chay, hailed the Red Devils performance, noting that the title holders are worthy opponents. "There is nothing surprising about the result," the Frenchman said. "Ahli are a strong side and their second-tier team is as strong as the first," he added. Chay tipped Ahli to reach the final of the African Champions League for the second time this year. "They have unbelievable resources whether in terms of players, venues or training programs," he said. Kabylie, who were also suffering from a depleted squad in the match against Ahli, will next face Sfaxien at home next months, while Ahli travel to take on Kotoko.
