The Cairo giants wasted a host of opportunities after grabbing the lead and the petroleum club were close to snatching the equalizer late in the match.

"We could have easily added the second and killed off the game, given the many scoring opportunities we had," Krol told the post-match press conference.

"However, I'm happy with the victory and looking forward to the Cairo derby against Ahli on Monday."

The Dutch tactician is unhappy to lose Beshir Al-Tabie against Ahli after the combative defender picked up a second yellow card against ENPPI.

"I do not think he deserved to be booked, but I have to respect the referee's decision," he said.

On the other hand, ENPPI assistant manager Hani Ramzi blamed the team's strikers for failing to deliver.

"They lacked concentration in front of goal. (Ivorian striker) Vincent Die Foneye had an easy chance in the first-half, if he scored it we would have been in a better position."

"Substitute Ahmed Abdul-Zaher has also missed two close range headers shortly before the end," Ramzi bemoaned.