Abdul-Aziz Abdul-Shafi 'Zizo' played down the impact of Ahli's negotiations with a foreign coach to take over at the club in January. Ahli appointed Zizo as a temporary coach following the resignation of Hossam Al-Badri and started looking for a new foreign tactician amid the team's disappointing run of results. Reports suggested that Ahli players might not give it their all because they bear in mind that Zizo's tenure will be short-lived. "There is nothing in football called temporary or permanent coach," the Ahli great said after his debut ended in a 1-1 draw at bottom side Smouha in the Egyptian Premier League on Thursday. "The players are fully aware that their coach is doing his best in his job, and this is what matters most." French coach Herve Renard is a frontrunner to take up Ahli's prestigious seat following the Cairo derby against arch-rivals Zamalek on the New Year eve. Improved Display Ahli, who suffered their first league defeat of the season when they lost 3-1 to bitter foes Ismaili in their previous game, wasted a handful of clear-cut opportunities against lowly Smouha at Alexandria Stadium.
Smouha and Ahli play out 1-1 draw The hosts took the lead after a superb individual effort from Ghanaian striker Godwin Attram but a poacher's header from Ahli playmaker Mohamed Abou-Treika secured a share of spoils. Ahli's late onslaught failed to pay dividends, with the team still struggling without the presence of a reliable striker. "Our confidence is increasing. Everybody felt today that Ahli produced an improved display despite the absence of some players and the pressure the team are subjected to," Zizo added. "Generally, I'm satisfied with the team's display tonight regardless of the result. We took the first step in a tiring journey." Ahli had to do without the likes of Ahmed Hassan, Shehab Ahmed, Hossam Ashour, Sherif Abdul-Fadil and Sayed Moawad - all of whom are key players in the Red Devils' squad. Zizo fielded youngster Afrotto, a natural attacking midfielder, as a left wingback to deputize for Moawad. Afrotto was shaky at the back but caused menace with his surging runs upfront. "I want to thank Afrotto for his performance although he played out of position. He lived up to expectations," Zizo commented. "Being a veteran or young player makes no difference, the fit and in-form player will play (regardless of age)."
