Portuguese manager Jose decided to rely on youngsters in the league campaign after Ahli were crowned Egyptian champions for the fourth successive season.

The decision drew criticism from a section of Ahli fans as well as several pundits after Ahli suffered two successive defeats against Ittihad and ENPPI.

However, after Ahli put in a convincing display to beat Platinum Stars 2-0 and advance in the Champions League, Jose's decision was justified.

"Jose proved that his decision was absolutely a right one," Maihoub told Arab Radio and Television (ART) after the match.

"The players had not been rested for four consecutive seasons so we had to take action.

"The consequence of Jose's decision is that we have fulfilled our aim of reaching the Champions League group stage."

On the other hand, Ahli keeper Amir Abdul-Hamid said he didn't care that Etoile Sahel were eliminated from the elite competition.

Tunisia's Etoile, who clinched the title last season after overcoming Ahli in the final, suffered an early exit after slumping to a shocking defeat to Dynamos of Zimbabwe.

"Our target is to win the title regardless of any potential opponents. It doesn't matter that Etoile have been knocked out," he said.