The Egyptian team suffered a heavy 5-2 defeat against Sundowns in the CAF Champions League on Saturday, leaving their hopes of advancing from the group stage in disarray.

“Sundowns deserved to win today as we played very poorly in the first half,” Koller told the post game’s press conference.

Two goals from Peter Shalulile and strikes from Marcelo Allende, Themba Zwane, and Teboho Mokoena secured the victory for Sundowns.

Ahly managed to score two consolation goals through Mohamed Sherif in the 13th minute and Percy Tau in the 61st minute.

“We wanted to take risks in the second half in order to get back in the game but Sundowns hit us on counter attacks and scored additional goals that caused more pressure on us,” Koller added.

Currently in third place with just 4 points,

Ahly's chances of reaching the quarterfinals of the Champions League are slim. They trail group leaders Sundowns, who have 10 points, and Al-Hilal of Sudan, who have nine.

To keep their hopes alive, Ahly must win their next two games against Coton Sport of Cameroon and Al-Hilal while hoping that Al-Hilal will not beat Sundowns in their upcoming match in Sudan.

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