The Red Devils maintained their supremacy over arch-rivals Zamalek with a 2-1 victory in the Champions League group stage opener.

Gilberto capitalized on a dreadful error by Mohamed Abdullah to set up the opener for his compatriot Flavio Amado.

Gamal Hamza drew Zamalek level in the second period but Ahli’s newly-signed midfielder Ahmed Hassan sealed the win shortly after.

Jose believes the players’ commitment was the key behind the precious win.

"I told the players before the match that any mistakes from either side will determine the winner," the Portuguese told the post-match press conference.

"I stressed that our mistakes should be less than those of our opponents.

"And that was the case. Flavio notched the opener right after Abdullah’s mistake."

However, Jose said Ahli should have put the result beyond doubt in the second period.

"We wasted several opportunities before Zamalek’s equalizer. We should have at least scored another goal."

Better Display

The 62-year-old boss said Ahli will be better prepared when they face Zamalek once again on Sunday, in the Egyptian Super Cup.

"We signed nine players in the close season but we could only register four in our Champions League squad."

"But on Sunday we can use any of our new players. I extended my contract to build a new Ahli team for the future."