Ahli defender Wael Gomaa believes his side did not deserve defeat against Sunshine Stars in the CAF Champions League semi-final first leg. The Reds gave away a two-goal lead to draw 3-3 in Nigeria last weekend, in a match they dominated for long spells. Gomaa, who conceded the freekick that resulted in the third goal, admits that victory was within reach if it wasn't for the good fortune of the Nigerians. “Yes we may have given away the win but it was out of our hands. They were very very lucky!" the 37-year-old told Ahli's satellite channel. “The first goal was very lucky. If this shot was repeated 100 times it will never go in like this. “The third goal (the foul), was actually a foul on me and was unfairly given against us. I believe we were also unfortunate with some chances at the other end.
“But they are a team who managed to qualify for the semi-finals of the Champions League, so they must be respected. At least they have some decent players. “We played the first half in Nigeria and now we have the game in Cairo and I believe we can win." Esperance Poised for his sixth Champions League final, Gomaa would prefer a clash with North African neighbors Esperance rather than a visit to the mighty Mazembe of DR Congo. “I don't think there will be a great difference, but personally I prefer to play in Tunisia because of the artificial grass (of Mazembe's pitch)," he added. “The fans of Mazembe also support their team in an abnormal way, so this is also a reason why I prefer Tunisia in the final." Mazembe – four-time African champions – are on an 18-match unbeaten run at home in the Dark Continent.
