Ahli coach Hossam Al-Badri is likely to stay in his role beyond the end of the current season despite being heavily criticized by the Red Devils' faithful. The Cairo giants have all but sealed a sixth consecutive Egyptian Premier League title in their first season under the guidance of Al-Badri, who took over at the club last summer following the resignation of Portuguese Manuel Jose. Jose earned a cult status among Ahli's fans after steering their team to a host of local and continental triumphs during his glorious reign. Although Ahli are still fighting on three fronts this season - the league, cup and Champions League - Al-Badri's work remains subject of criticism. He is blamed for failing to instill into his team an exciting brand of football that was attached to his predecessor. One point separates Ahli from a customary league triumph but Al-Badri's future was still thrown into doubt. However, Ahli's marketing director Adli Al-Qaeyi reflected the club's trust in the abilities of Al-Badri. "I think Al-Badri's deal will be extended because he has done a good job in his first season with the club," Al-Qaeyi told Egyptian radio on Wednesday. Ahli need just one point from their remaining four matches to wrap up their 35th league title. They ended any hopes Zamalek had of launching a late assault on the title by scoring in stoppage time to hold their arch-rivals to a thrilling 3-3 draw last Friday.
