Injury-plagued kick-off their title defense when they take on the newcomers Tanta in the Egyptian league curtain raiser on Thursday. The Egyptian champions are expected to cruise to victory despite the numerous injuries in their squad, including key-players like Mohamed Abou-Treika, Mohamed Barakat, Emad Al-Nahhas and Tarek Al-Saied. The continental champions have proved they can cope with the pressure after beating JS Kabylie of Algeria in the African Champions League quarter-finals less that a fortnight ago. However, facing Tanta should prove to be a much easier task for Manuel Jose's men, especially after the return of Emad Meteb and Shadi Mohamed who were both suspended for the African game.
The champions will be without star player Abou-Treika Tanta were set to host Ahli in the league opener but due to construction in their home venue, Ahli officials offered to host the game and the Egyptian FA approved. Tanta coach Hamada Marzouk will be looking to pull a surprise against his former team, Ahli, and signal the arrival of a possible "dark horse" in this year's local competition. Other opening-day games include between Al-Gaish against Petrojet, Arab Contractors against Ittihad, Olympic against Enppi and Asyut Petroleum against Harras Al-Hodoud. Zamalek kick-off their league campaign by facing Ghazl Mahalla on Friday while Suez Cement host Tersana and Ismaili clash with neighbors Masri.
