Egypt News

The six-times African champions surrendered a two-goal lead to Mexico's Pachuca before eventually losing 4-2 in the quarter-final of the Club World Cup at the weekend.

"Now I am the worst coach in Egypt, that’s what the press want and that’s what happens when Ahly lose," said the club's Portuguese coach Manuel Jose.

"The Egyptian media started to give us a bashing after making a big fuss that we would be able to become the world club champions. Most of their criticisms are ill-intentioned.

"I have got used to them. But I cannot forgive those who criticise my players. They must understand the difference of football in Africa, Europe and South America.

"They (Egyptian media) sometimes have a dream, but it sometimes becomes a nightmare. I've never said we would become the world champions."

He added: "I respect Adelaide but we must play our usual game like we did in the African Champions League final. If we can do that, we will have a chance to win. The best way to silence the critics is to win.

"My players are mentally strong and calm, they will never be overcome by those criticisms. We won so many titles and we made history in our country in the past 50 years. The defeat made us more positive, not passive."
Two years ago, Ahly placed third in the annual competition.

EGYPT NEWS

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