Ahli are aiming to extend their lead on top of the Egyptian Premier League with a win over strugglers Gaish on Saturday. The Red Devils, who had a shaky start to the season, took advantage of rescheduled matches to snatch top spot from Petrojet, following their recent victory over Harras Hodoud. Now the African champions have a chance to open a five-point gap at the summit, as the first round of the competition comes to en end. Having conceded no goals in their past five league games, Ahli seem to be getting over their rearguard problems which cost them a lot so far this season. Manuel Jose will decide whether to stick with youngster Mohamed Samir as sweeper or reinstate recovering skipper Shadi Mohamed.
Gaafar looking to upset Ahli Mohamed Abou-Treika and Hossam Ashour remain sidelined with injuries, but in-form duo Mohamed Barakat and Moataz Eno should deputize respectively. Rare Upset At the other end, Gaish will be looking to pop out of the relegation zone with at least a draw with the title holders, who have been significantly superior over them in recent years. The military side, who are currently third from bottom, have only managed one point from nine encounters with Ahli, since making their top-flight debut in 2004. Coach Farouk Gaafar could hand promising midfielder Mohamed Ibrahim his debut, following a winter move from Zamalek.
