The Cairo giants labored to a 1-0 home win over promoted Wadi Degla in a drab Egyptian Premier League affair on Thursday, a victory that barely eased the pressure on the defending champions.

In a near-empty Cairo Stadium, Ahli's fan group Ultras Ahlawy gave no support for their team before leaving the match in the second half.

The controversial supporters were protesting against the detention of some of their colleagues in Ismailia, following Ahli's 4-2 loss to Ismaili in a meaningless Champions League game on Sunday.

The lackluster performance against Degla even prompted some of Ahli spectators to boo their own team after the break.

"The fans were silent most of the match and jeered us in the second period," Ahli skipper Ghaly, who netted the winner, told Modern TV in a rueful tone.

"We need them to back us up in difficult situations. We know they are angry but we are calling for their support.

"Ahli have many remarkable players at their disposal but in terms of rhythm and harmony, we need to improve.

"We are nowhere near our best and we need to maintain composure in that critical phase to overcome our problems."

Over the past few months, Ahli, who lie eighth in the league table, have been slated for their poor run of form, with coach Hossam Al-Badri having the lion's share of criticism.

Al-Badri's future might largely depend on the outcome of the team's anticipated two-legged clash against Tunisian side Esperance in the Champions League semi final next month.