Ahli will have to find a way through Police Union defense without inspirational playmaker Mohamed Abou-Treika if they are to end an uncommon three-match winless run. The ankle injury Abou-Treika sustained during Ahli's 2-2 draw with Petrojet last month left the title holders lacking the necessary spark to break down stubborn defenses. The last time Ahli won in the Egyptian Premier League, a 2-1 victory over Arab Contractors on February 18th, the 30-year-old was present and scored the opener. Since then, Ahli drew twice with Petrojet and Asyut Petroleum and lost to rivals Ismaili as Abou-Treika was nursing the ankle complaint. He has yet to fully recover, leaving coach Manuel Jose with selection dilemma ahead of Friday's game against Police, who handed Ahli a surprising 1-0 defeat in the league's first half. Either Mohamed Barakat or veteran midfielder Ahmed Hassan will serve as a playmaker against Talaat Youssef's side.
Ahli will be eager to avoid another stumble that could give Ismaili the chance to go level on points with them for the first time this season. The Red Devils, who are looking to win a fifth consecutive league title, are in charge of the league table on 41 points, three ahead of Ismaili. Buba Absence Ahli are not the only side that will miss an influential player. Police will have to compensate for the absence of Minusu Buba, who will be out due to suspension. The Nigerian striker joined Police from ENPPI in January and made a fine impact, becoming Youssef's preferred choice upfront along with their top scorer Mohamed Yehia. Police assistant coach Mohamed Ibrahim is confident that his side can cause an upset without Buba. "We are capable of filling in for him. We will play for a win no matter whom we miss," he told FilGoal.com.
