League holders Ahli clash with one of the fierce contenders to dethrone them when they host cup champions Harras Hodoud on Sunday. After amassing maximum points from their first two games, Hossam Al-Badri's team are looking for another victory at Military Academy Stadium. A staggering head-to-head record of 13 league wins against zero defeats make the Red Devils odds-on for the top-of-the table encounter. However, Hodoud have proven they are no pushovers against Ahli of late as they developed to be one of the genuine title contenders this term.
Doe returns Tarek Al-Ashri's side eliminated Ahli en route to their cup triumph last year, before outclassing the African masters in the Super Cup at the start of the season. It is also expected to be an edgy tactical battle between the two sides, who uncommonly play with a 4-4-2 formation. "We have been deploying the 4-4-2 formation since a long time, but Ahli are now capable of using the same strategy without problems, so it will be difficult," Al-Ashri said. "It will be a tough game. The Ahli squad is by far stronger than the side we beat in the Super Cup."
A staggering head-to-head record of 13 league wins against zero defeats make the Red Devils odds-on for the top-of-the table encounter. Hodoud miss top scorer and influential striker Ahmed Abdul-Ghani through suspension, so Ahmed Salama is expected to deputize. On the other hand, Ahli welcome Liberian forward Francis Doe and striker Osama Hosni back from injury, but Sayed Moawad is out with a groin problem. Other Matches Elsewhere, Ittihad and Gaish are seeking redemption when they meet in Alexandria after their respective poor starts.
Tarek Al-Ashri's side eliminated Ahli en route to their cup triumph last year, before outclassing the African masters in the Super Cup at the start of the season. Ittihad, who made a host of summer signings to bolster their squad, have gained one point from two games, just like their opponents have done. The Alexandrians miss skipper and key defender Shadi Mohamed through injury, as well as Mohamed Ibrahim and Youssef Abdul-Rahim. In Ismailia, Masri play away from home, as the Port-Said stadium is under maintenance, facing Police Union, who have one point from two games. Rock bottom Ghazl Mahalla target their first point when they visit Asyut Petroleum, whereas newcomers Mansoura and Military Production clash in Mansoura.
