Ahly coach Hossam El-Badry has assured supporters that his team will reach the quarterfinals of the African Champions League, despite opening their group-stage campaign with a goalless draw.

The Cairo giants failed to score against Zambian side Zanaco at Alexandria's Borg El-Arab Stadium on Saturday, putting a damper on hopes of a smooth passage through the CAF group stage.

However, speaking at a post-match press conference, El-Badry expressed confidence, saying: "Ahly lost an important two points at the start of their CAF Champions League group-stage campaign, but the road is still long.

"We still have the chance to come back and book a place in the quarterfinals," he said.

Ahly started Saturday's game with vigour, apparently determined to score early on. However, their most dangerous chance of the half took 15 minutes to appear, and they were unable to score for the rest of the game.

"We dominated Zanaco's players throughout the game but without reaching the opposition's net," said El-Badry.

Morocco's Wydad Casablanca are now top of Group D after beating Coton Sport 2-0 on Saturday.

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