A neat combination between Angolan duo Flavio Amado and Gilberto provides the remedy for Ahli's inability to break down stubborn opponents. Gilberto's precise crosses and Flavio's aerial prowess are all what Ahli need to deal with tight defenses. In Friday's African Super Cup against Sfaxien, Ahli found it difficult to create clear-cut chances as they lacked the spark of injured playmaker Mohamed Abou-Treika. But Gilberto's footwork and accurate crosses in addition to Flavio's cunning jumps and moves inside the area proved too good for Sfaxien's defense. The Red Devils grabbed the opener shortly after the restart when Flavio beat his marker to Gilberto's right-wing corner to head past Sfaxien keeper Jassem Khaloufi at the near post. "We took advantage of Sfaxien's defensive lapses to whip in perfect crosses," Ahli assistant coach Hossam Al-Badri commented. Kouassi Blaise equalized for the visitors before the 29-year-old Flavio broke Sfaxien hearts with an exquisitely-directed header past the hapless Khaloufi, thanks to another pinpoint Gilberto cross. "Gilberto and Flavio are the heroes as Ahli down Sfaxien," read the headline of Egypt's best-selling newspaper Al-Ahram. This was not the first time the duo settle ties into Ahli's favor through their on-field understanding. A near-post header by Flavio after being set-up by Gilberto's corner gave Ahli a 1-0 Cairo derby victory over arch-rivals Zamalek last month.
A carbon copy of that goal saw the Cairo giants overcome Nigerian side Enyimba in the CAF Champions League semi-final. "In our pre-match training sessions, We focused on stopping Flavio's aerial threat but he still managed to score," disappointed Zamalek keeper Abdul-Wahed Al-Sayed said. Zero to Hero Gilberto quickly settled in after joining Ahli from Angolan side Petro Atletico in 2002 to become a fans' favorite. But Flavio, who joined from the same club three years later, had a disastrous start and soon found himself in hot water with Ahli fans after failing to score for 12 months. He was also guilty of squandering many golden opportunities as coach Manuel Jose was heavily criticized for keeping faith in him. But once Flavio ended his one-year goal drought by notching a brace against Asyut Petroleum in August 2006, the Angolan international proved that he was the most reliable striker at the disposal of Jose. He went from zero to hero to lead Ahli to a host of trophies through his decisive goals. "I'm very happy with what Flavio is doing. He plays a pivotal role in Ahli's continued success," Al-Badri told Egyptian daily Al-Messa. Ahli are doing their best to keep hold of their prized asset, who reportedly seeks a new challenge after establishing himself as one of the most fearsome strikers in Africa. "Flavio is fully aware that he will only attract European suitors if he continues to perform so well for Ahli. He loves being here anyway," Al-Badri added.
