The defending champions finished the first half of the season in fifth place, six points behind leaders and arch-rivals Zamalek.

But Jose, who is enjoying a third stint with the Cairo giants, believes that the title is still within his side’s reach.

“When I said I am building a new team, I never meant we won’t compete for the title. It would be unreasonable to write Ahli off,” the Portuguese told reporters.

“Some people have already begun giving out prizes, but we’ll see who will have the last laugh.”

Ahli face Cairo rivals Police Union in a crunch meeting on Thursday as both sides are level on 26 points.