The Red Devils take a narrow 2-1 lead into the second leg of the competition's semi final as they aim to reach the final for the fifth time in six years.

"Goalkeeping coach Ahmed Nagi sat down with me lately to discuss with me the mistakes I make," Ekrami told FilGoal.com.

"His instructions usually increase my confidence. I was also involved in intensive training to be fully ready for the Esperance clash."

Ekrami became Ahli's first-choice goalie this season but could not produce consistent displays.

He was to blame for the goal Esperance scored in the first leg which prevented Ahli from gaining a comfortable lead.

The former Feyenoord man could only push a tame cross into the path of Esperance captain Oussama Darragi, who slotted into the empty net.

"I'm aware that if I do not concede any goals Ahli will go through. It's my responsibility to keep a clean sheet, I want to fulfill this target," Ekrami added.

"I hope God will help me keep my promise of not conceding any goal."

Egyptian champions Ahli are eyeing a record-extending seventh Champions League title.

Esperance won the old version of the competition once in 1994 and reached the final of the new format twice in 1999 and 2000.