Petrojet will be looking to cause an upset against runaway leaders Ahli in the Egyptian League on Thursday in order to keep up pace with second-place competitors. Ahli have virtually guaranteed a fourth successive league title as they are in charge of the table with 58 points, a massive 18 ahead of second-placed Ismaili. The Red Devils have left desperate pursuers battling to finish second in order to play in the CAF Champions League next season. Petrojet lie fifth on 36 points, one behind Al-Gaish and Zamalek who come fourth and third respectively. However, the fact that Zamalek and Al-Gaish have a game in hand over Petrojet means that the petroleum club will be looking for a much-needed win against Ahli. Title holders Ahli are yet to taste a defeat but Petrojet can capitalize on the Red Devils' shaky displays recently. Ahli claimed a narrow 1-0 win over Tersana and were criticized for their uninspiring form against the Hammers. They were held to a 1-1 draw by Telecom Egypt afterwards as lack of motivation has seemingly taken its toll on Ahli players. Portuguese coach Manuel Jose was furious with his players and demanded response against Petrojet, who will miss league top scorer Alaa Ibrahim through injury. On the other hand, Ahli welcome back Flavio Amado after the Angolan striker recovered from injury. Influential defender Shadi Mohamed, whose absence dearly affected the Cairo giants against Telecom Egypt, also returns.
Zamalek out to hand Hassan first defeat Ahli will miss in-form midfielder Ahmed Fathi through suspension. Fathi has excelled since his arrival in January, scoring three goals and earning plaudits for some impressive displays. Zamalek V Masri Zamalek host Masri with the aim of going level with Ismaili in second place. The men in white assistant coach Mohamed Helmi complained of a hectic schedule, insisting that his players are suffering from exhaustion. Zamalek have just returned from Ivory Coast after overcoming Africa Sports to reach the CAF Champions League round of 16. Their trip to Abidjan was overshadowed by Amr Zaki's unexplainable absence. The striker is set to be questioned over his attitude. The Egypt frontman will not take part against Masri despite apologizing to the technical staff. Talented winger Mahmoud Abdul-Razeq 'Shikabala' has been also left out due to an ankle injury. Masri will be looking to maintain their unbeaten run under new coach Hossam Hassan, who is yet to announce his retirement from professional football. The veteran striker succeeded Portuguese manager Juan Alves at the helm and helped the Port Said-based club claim one victory and three draws. Given Masri's poor results over the past few years, it is considered as a good start for Hassan in his first managerial experience.
