Ahly's boss Hossam Al-Badri thanked his players for their performance in Sunday's goalless draw with Bidvest of South Africa in the second-leg of the Champions League round of 32.

The eight-time African Champions sealed a place in the continental competition's group stages following a 1-0 win on aggregate.

"The game was very tough but we managed to achieve our target," Al-Badri told a TV program after the game.

"I thanked the players for their efforts during the game."

The 57-year-old coach charged the match referee turned down a clear penalty for his team in the first half.

"We had a chance to make the game easier but referee ignored a clear penalty."

"In the second half, we intensified our presence in the midfield to control the game and we reached our target.'' he concluded. 

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