The league's top duo Ahli and Zamalek lock horns in a rare Egyptian Cup round of 16 encounter at Cairo Stadium on Wednesday night. Egypt's top match of the season is all about motives at this stage, with Zamalek desperate for silverware and Ahli going for the double. While Zamalek supporters are cheering about the 'return of glory days', Hossam Hassan's name has always been attached to the ambition. Without a trophy in two years, the Whites are hoping to maintain the significant revival masterminded by the former Ahli star this year. Hassan, along with several players, has repeatedly stated his extreme desire of bringing silverware home to the club; and a win over their arch-rivals virtually makes them favorites for the title. On the other hand, pressure is much less on league champions Ahli, whose last cup defeat to their bitter rivals came 51 years ago. "Beating Zamalek will help us edge closer to achieving our last target this season, winning the Egyptian Cup to complete the double," said manager Hossam Al-Badri. Al-Badri was given a vote of confidence by the Ahli board after guiding the team to the Champions League group stage with an emphatic victory over Libya's Ittihad.
Team News Ahli are boosted by the return of influential midfielder Ahmed Fathi, who is in line for a start following a groin injury. But top scorer Emad Meteb has been ruled out for the rest of the season with a nagging back problem. In-form striker Mohamed Fadl sustained a hamstring strain in the last 32 win at Nabaroh, but should be fit to lead the frontline. Liberian striker Francis Doe is also available following a family bereavement, whereas Mohamed Barakat is fit again after a minor knock. Zamalek have an injury-free squad as key defender Mahmoud Fathallah continues to play with a protective head gear. The Egypt center-half had 19 stitches to treat a head injury in a league match two weeks ago, but is believed to be eager to face Ahli.
