Fate has once again put Ismaili in the path of Ahli, who will be aiming to demonstrate their dominance over their rivals in the Egyptian Super Cup on Thursday. Egyptian League runners-up Zamalek should have played the game but withdrew, making way for Ismaili to make their first appearance in the Super Cup since it started six years ago. Emotions have been running high between supporters from both sides following Hosni Abd-Rabou's saga. Ahli cruised past Ismaili 2-0 in their last game in the Egyptian Cup semis and moved on to win the title after beating Zamalek 4-3. MORALE BOOSTER Ismaili will be looking for a morale-boosting victory after suffering recent disappointments. The Dervishes were held to two successive draws in the CAF Confederation Cup and then axed manager Patrice Neveu after the Frenchman's three-week absence from the club. Taha Basri was appointed as Ismaili's new boss. However, he will not lead Ismaili against Ahli, leaving the task for assistant coach Fawzi Gamal. Defender Moatassem Salem and goalkeeper Mohamed Fathi will be the only absentees from Ismaili squad due to suspention. On the other hand, Ahli sweeper Emad Al-Nahhas will miss the game due to injury, as skipper Shadi Mohamed is set to play his role. Islam Al-Shater and Essam Al-Hadari are doubtful, although included in the squad. Striker Emad Meteb returns after serving a 10-day suspension by the club for protesting the technical staff decision to substitute him in the Cairo giants' 3-0 victory over Esperance in the CAF Champions League.
