The defending champions lie fourth in the league table with 25 points, six behind their arch-rivals Zamalek who are leading the way.

Ahli have only won a couple of league games out of their last eight, a string of poor results that took a toll on their domestic campaign.

But Jose is convinced that closing the gap on the whites is not impossible, providing that his men revel in victories.

"When we begin to win games, more pressure will be piled on Zamalek," the Portuguese tactician told Modern TV.

"They won't be able to handle this kind of pressure, especially that they have tough games at Ismaili and Masri.

"I'm sure they will stumble and lose some points."

Joke

When asked about his sarcastic comments on Ahli's famous 6-1 victory over Zamalek, Jose assured that he didn't mean to disrespect the latter club.

"It was just a joke because I was unveiled as Ahli's boss during a press conference held on 6-1 (the sixth of January)," he explained.

"I respect Zamalek coach Hossam Hassan and his twin brother Ibrahim (football director)."