Berekum Chelsea coach Hans van der Pluym is not overly distraught over his side’s diminishing CAF Champions’ League chances, telling 90 MINUTES the former Ghana champions can still earn through to the last four of Africa’s flagship club competition.

van der Pluym says he’s not disappointed Chelsea failed to beat Al Ahly because they did very well against their vastly experienced opponents and reckons Ahly lived up to their billing as Africa’s greatest football club.

“I’m not disappointed with my team because the boys played their hearts out. In the first half, we were so anxious to attack but I think the second half they played fantastic soccer. It’s very unfortunate that we couldn’t take our chances but we could have beaten them.

“There is a difference between Al Ahly and Chelsea and it’s that difference that showed on the day. They were experienced, tactically disciplined, patient and know when to strike. (Mohammed) Aboutrika is so sensible. He is the most sensible African player I have ever seen,” the Dutchman poured his heart out to this paper moments after the 1-1 draw.

However the former Ashantigold and Heart of Lions helmsman is also not ruling out Chelsea’s continued progress in the tournament.

“In football, nothing is impossible. It’s never over until it’s all over. I’m definitely not happy with the result but the result is not too bad against Al Ahly. We never give up and that’s what I’m stressing to the players. We will go all out there for ninety minutes and try our best to win against Zamalek,” the Chelsea coach told 90 MINUTES.Credit: