Johannes Van der Pluijm head coach of Berekum Chelsea FC has lauded his team’s fighting spirit displayed during their CAF Champions League group phase opener against Zamalek of Egypt on Saturday at the Accra Sports Stadium.

The 2010/2011 Premier League champions came from behind twice to snatch a 3-2 victory over the five-time winners and the Dutchman tells GNA Sports that his team's determination did the trick.

Striker Emmanuel Clottey scored a hat-trick including a last-gasp strike that sealed victory and ensured the visitors returned to their base empty handed.

Coach Van der Pluijm admitted that his side laboured in search of their feet in the opening half but recovered strongly to seal a famous victory over the Egyptian giants.

“In the beginning we made some mistakes, but we recovered in the second half. The mentality and determination of my players was positive.

“When you play against a team like Zamalek and you come back twice, then it’s a fantastic result. I have to give credit to my boys,” said Van der Pluijm.

The Dutchman said they are looking forward to their next match at the group phase of the competition.

The Ghanaian representatives will next play against TP Mazembe of DR Congo on July 22 in Lubumbashi.**