The Cairo giants eased past South Africa’s Mamelodi Sundowns 2-0 on Friday to win 4-2 on aggregate and continue their bid towards an unprecedented third successive Champions League title.

"With all respect everyone, we are the best in Africa and deserve to win the title this season also," Jose told the post-match press conference.

The Portuguese boss was pleased with the second-half display following a dull first period which witnessed rare opportunities for the hosts.

"I was furious at halftime due to our poor display, the players were nervous after squandering a two-goal lead in the first-leg."

"However, in the second-half we were much better and managed to score two goals through Shadi Mohamed and Mohamed Abou-Treika."

The 61-year-old manager took a swipe at Sundowns coach Gordon Igesund.

"Igesund said he would come to Cairo to win but I didn’t see any attacking approach from the South Africans," he said.

Igesund said he knew that it was over following the 2-2 home draw but felt it was necessary to motivate the players to do their best in the second-leg.

He also claimed that Ahli’s superiority in Africa is down to the host of stars at their disposal, not to the impact Jose has had since his arrival.