Al Ahly manager Martin Jol has heaped praise on Zesco United but blames his side’s shock 3-2 loss  in Ndola yesterday to injuries.

The Dutchman said it was always going to be a challenge to beat Zesco United at Levy Mwanawasa Stadium.

Jol was however, impressed with his team’s mentality through the entire 90 minutes of the match.

“We expected a good team because we heard that they have never lost at home against foreign teams so it is a very good team.

“we looked a little bit unbalanced; we were still looking for our balance after we had a few injuries we had and we had a very good team,” Jol said.

And Jol said  his team showed great character through the entire match.

“I am proud of my boys because in the second half they came back in it to fight and they fought, but of course it was not enough to get back into the game and to score the third goal. But even at 3-2 they looked dangerous and quite handful.”

John Antwi’s double was not enough to salvage a point for the Egyptians. Clatous Chama’s brace and John Chingandu’s long range strike secure precious 3 points for  Zesco United.

The Egyptian giants return to continental action in two weeks time when they play Asec Mimosas at home in Cairo while Zesco United will be away to Wydad Casablanca in Morocco.