The Pharaohs were soundly beaten in Kumasi in the first-leg playoff, leaving them with a mission-impossible when they host their opponents next month in Cairo.

“I would say it just wasn’t our day in Ghana,” Ahli captain Gomaa, 38, told his club’s website ahead of the semi-final game against Coton Sport.

“Nothing is impossible in football. The surprise 6-1 defeat to Ghana proves so. It isn't over yet.

“I still believe it is too early to talk about the end of our World Cup chances ahead of the return game.

“I think it is better to forget the Ghana game now as I need to focus with Ahli in the Champions League.”

Egypt host Ghana on November 19, knowing they need five goals and a clean sheet to secure a World Cup place.