Ahly Benghazi's Egyptian coach Tarek El-Ashry is delighted his side were able to make the most of Cairo side Ahly's dip in form as they overcame the title holders to reach the African Champions League group stage. Eight-time African champions Ahly were knocked out at the last-16 stage after a stunning 3-2 home defeat by Benghazi condemned them to a 4-2 aggregate defeat. The defeat compounded the misery of an Ahly side who lost nine out of 18 matches under coach Mohamed Youssef in all competitions this season. "I expected to beat Ahly again in the second leg due to their dip in form in the previous games," El-Ashry told a television programme after that game. "I appreciate Ahly coach Mohamed Youssef for his patience to lead the team during this hard situation," he added. "I thank Ahly Benghazi players for following the technical plan that we drew up for the team," El-Ashry said. "I hope to continue winning in the tournament." Source: Ahram Online