The curtain will be raised on the 2008-2009 season with a special opener as Ahli and Zamalek clash in the CAF Champions League group stage kickoff. A win at the starting point for either side will be morale-boosting, as well as crucial in a Group B that includes Ivorian giants ASEC and surprise package Dynamos Harare. Ahli should be more familiar with the tension of the last eight phase, as they have been ever-present in recent years, which included two African titles. Even though Zamalek share a record of five titles with their local rivals, the Whites will make their first group stage appearance in three years. Moreover, Zamalek's last appearance in 2005 saw them crashing out from the semis at the hands of the Reds, who impressively won both legs in Cairo. Zamalek though have a chance to avenge their recent failures against the Egyptian league champions, especially after getting back to winning ways following their Cup victory. Apart from the significance of the game and the fierce rivalry between Egypt's top duo, an entertaining encounter is on the cards thanks to a hot summer transfer period. Both sides managed to land a number of impressive new signings, which also involved some off-the-pitch tussles between the Cairo rivals. Ahli Egypt regulars Ahmed Hassan and Sayed Moawad should make their debut, while newcomers Hussein Yasser, Hussein Ali, Hani Al-Egaizi, Ahmed Hassan Farag were not registered in the Champions League.
Hollman faces former club Hassan is expected to hold midfield with Hossam Ashour, and the left-sided Gilberto could join them in the middle to make way for Moawad. Ahli will be missing talismanic playmaker Mohamed Abou-Treika though, as well as key duo Ahmed Fathi and Emad Al-Nahhas. Wael Gomaa is back in the squad, following a loan spell at Al-Siliya last term, and should retain his place at the heart of defense. Zamalek Zamalek new coach Reiner Hollman is set for an ironic debut against his former club, where he had a successful reign in the late nineties. Much is expected from Zamalek's top summer signing Junior Agogo, who will be handed the responsibility of covering for the absence of hitman Amr Zaki. Ayman Abdul-Aziz returns to the Whites' roster after spending eight years in Turkey, The Egypt international will wear the captain's armband and should start in midfield. Egypt sweeper Hani Saied, who joined Zamalek after a series of outrageous circumstances, will start on the bench. In addition to Wigan-bound Zaki, Zamalek will miss Shikabala as the influential playmaker is serving a lengthy six-month suspension, while defender Amr Al-Safti is banned for the match.
