Pachuca ace Damian Alvarez said his side were stunned by Ahli's first-half performance in last weekend's Club World Cup first round clash.

Alvarez scored the winning goal as Pachuca completed a dramatic comeback to beat the African champions 4-2 and go through to the semis.

Despite ending the game on the winning side, the Argentine forward admitted that he underestimated Ahli prior to the game.

"We watched some games for Ahli and we knew they are good, but we were surprised by their display in the first half," Alvarez said.

"Even though they lost, they deserve some credit and they should be proud of what they achieved."

Alvarez believes that the Mexicans have mentally outclassed Ahli, who conceded two goals in extra-time.

"Apart from tactics, we won because we were mentally focused after the break," he added.

After beating Ahli, Pachuca will be facing Liga de Quito in the semi-final on Wednesday.