Ahli midfielder Hossam Ashour might be ruled out of Egyptian Cup clash against Harras Hodoud in the round of 16 on Wednesday with a thigh injury. According to the Red Devils' official website, the 23-year-old is undergoing scans on Tuesday, and upon the results the medical staff will assess his condition. The player sustained a thigh muscle bruise last Saturday during the 1-0 win over Ismaili in the Egyptian Premier League, which cast doubts on his availability for Wednesday's game. Coach Manuel Jose could resort to playing either recently-recovered Ahmed Hassan or Hussein Ali in Ashour's position in case the latter was proven unfit. Midfielder Hassan Mostafa, whom Ahli kept hold of this transfer window, could also deputize in Ashour's absence. The Cairo giants are holding their last pre-match training session on Tuesday, whereupon the 18-man squad should be announced.
Shadi optimistic ahead of Hodoud showdown Confidence Meanwhile, Ahli skipper Shadi Mohamed is full of confidence ahead of facing Hodoud, who are going to have the home advantage. "We are determined to pull off a victory over Hodoud and qualify for the Egyptian Cup quarter-finals," Shadi told Ahli's official website. "All heavyweights have been knocked out earlier than expected, therefore we have a substantial chance to claim the title." Previously, Zamalek were ousted from the round of 32 after embarrassingly slumping to a 1-0 defeat to third tier Bani Obeid. On the other hand, Ismaili were eliminated from the same round after losing 1-0 to second division side Dakhlia.
