Petrojet's title credentials face a stern test against Ahli at home in the Egyptian Premier League on Sunday. Leaders Ahli, who chase a fifth consecutive league title, are five points clear of Petrojet with a game in hand. A home win over Ahli will probably be Petrojet's only option if they are to spring a huge surprise come the end of the elite competition. The Petroleum club will be also looking to make up for their stunning 3-1 defeat to second-bottom Olympic in their last game. "Our defeat against Olympic doesn't mean that we are out of the title race," head coach Mokhtar told FilGoal.com. "Yes our task (winning the league) is difficult but I still believe we can achieve it." Ahli coach Manuel Jose, on the other hand, doesn't seem concerned with any potential threat from his side's competitors.
Ricardo under fire "Nobody worries us, we are the reigning champions," the Portuguese tactician told Ahli TV. "Teams who fear their opponents are the ones who lose, and we don't like to lose." Jose will miss influential midfielder Hossam Ashour, who suffered a bruised knee in Ahli's 2-1 victory over Arab Contractors on Wednesday. Ashour established himself as an integral member of Ahli's squad this season after putting in a series of battling displays in midfield. Moataz Eno is out due to suspension, so veteran midfielder Ahmed Hassan, who has recovered from an injury, is likely to partner the evergreen Ahmed Fathi in the heart of Ahli's midfield. Skipper Shadi Mohamed is also suspended as Mohamed Samir is expected to be given a starting berth to complete Ahli's three-man defense which includes Ahmed Al-Sayed and Wael Gomaa. Petrojet will have to do without Egyptian international midfielder Ahmed Shaaban, who has been ruled out of the game with a foot problem.
- Ahli are unbeaten in nine league games - Ahli thrashed Petrojet 4-0 in the league's first half - Petrojet have the fourth-worst defense - Petrojet's away record is better than their home's Under Pressure Under-pressure Ismaili coach Ricardo Ferreira will be eager to guide his side past Olympic on Sunday to allay worries over his future. The Brazilian had to withstand fierce criticism after Ismaili slumped to a 1-0 defeat to Gaish last week. Reports even suggested the Dervishes considered parting ways with him and appointing Mohsen Saleh as their new coach. Ismaili, third on 32 points, seven behind Ahli, have no choice but to beat Olympic to keep their faint title hopes alive. The same applies to Egyptian Cup runners-up ENPPI, also on 32, who visit Ghazl Mahalla.
