Amid a horrendous start in the African Champions League group stage, Zamalek coach Jaime Pacheco said his team maintains the ambition to claim the prestigious continental title.

Zamalek were dealt a massive blow on Saturday when they lost 3-1 to Tunisia's Esperance in Rades, extending their winless start in Group D of the African Champions League.

"I congratulate Esperance for the win in the game," Pacheco said in the post game's press conference.

"In the first half we dominated the game then we lost our concentration only to receive the first goal but we quickly managed to score the equaliser before suffering two more goals."

Zamalek, who were held to two opening goalless draws before losing to Esperance, are now third in the group with two points, three behind MC Alger, who defeated bottom side Teungueth FC 1-0 in Senegal. Esperance top the group with seven points.

"Zamalek maintain the ambition to win the African Champions League title ... the competition is still run for the qualify," Pacheco said.

Zamalek lost in the Champions league final last year to arch-rivals Ahly.

The Cairo giants are scheduled to host Esperance of Tunisia next week in the 4th round of Group D games.

"I thank Zamalek players for their performance during the game against Esperance since we are in a difficult group but we still have a chance to qualify," the Zamalek coach said.

(For more sports news and updates, follow Ahram Online Sports on Twitter at @AO_Sports and on Facebook at AhramOnlineSports.)