Egyptian giants Ahli and Zamalek face Platinum Stars and Interclube respectively, in an attempt to secure a last eight CAF Champions League place. First and second in the league, Ahli and Zamalek will be hoping to duplicate domestic success on the continental scene. Ahli are league champions, while in-form Zamalek seem to have regained confidence lately, following a turbulent season. Ahli's mission in Pretoria might be a bit tougher against enthusiastic Stars of South Africa, who lie sixth in the ABSA Premier League. On the other hand, the Whites will have to win comprehensively against Angolan champions Interclube in Cairo. Serious Problems Five-time African champions Ahli might be buoyant with their recent Egyptian league triumph, which is their fourth on the trot. However, the Reds have been humbled by a series of unfortunate events regarding their squad in recent weeks. Regular duo Emad Al-Nahhas and Ahmed Fathi are set for a six-month layoff after suffering serious injuries against Ismaili and Baladeya respectively. Even though Amir Abdul-Hamid's chances of playing increased, Ahli's first-choice goalkeeper missed the last two league games with a hamstring.
Zamalek are back to winning ways Amir's injury, following Essam Al-Hadari's departure to Sion, left Manuel Jose with inexperienced 20-year-old Ahmed Abdul-Monem as the only option in goal. But the injury crisis does not seem to bother the ruthless Portuguese, who led Ahli to the last three finals of Africa's top club competition. "Although I don't have some of the star players who were here last time we played Sundowns, we have exciting new players who are dangerous on their own and we have come here to win," said Jose. Jose's team were boosted by the news that Mohamed Barakat is fit after recovering from a knee injury. Full Squad Zamalek, who also have five African titles to their records, have last reached the group stages in 2005 as they eventually lost to Ahli in the semis. On contrary to their bitter rivals, Zamalek have a full-bore team ready to entertain Interclube at Military Stadium. The Whites welcome back Amr Zaki, Beshir Al-Tabie, Wissem El-Abdi, Mostafa Gaafar and Amr Safti, who all missed out on last week's win over Harras Al-Hodoud. Egypt ace Zaki could partner the on-fire Gamal Hamza upfront, who scored all goals in the latest two league wins over Ghazl Mahalla and Harras. Mohamed Abdullah is the only doubt for the game, as the former Konyaspor winger has flu.
