Zamalek striker Amr Zaki said he would support Ahli in their anticipating clash against Tunisia's Esperance in the first-leg of the Champions League semi final on Sunday. Ahli are Zamalek's traditional foes but Zaki believes such a rivalry should not distract him from getting behind Egypt's sole representative in Africa's premier club competition. "I, my teammates and Zamalek fans will support Ahli against Esperance," Zaki said after the White Knights staged a superb comeback to secure a 4-3 victory over promoted MCDR in Saturday's Egyptian Premier League game. "Ahli do not represent themselves only, they represent Egypt. That's why I will fully support them." Ahli are the record winners of the Champions League with six titles, one more than Zamalek. Zaki made a fine start to the season after ending a short loan spell at English side Hull City, scoring three goals in Zamalek's first three league games. He wasted several goalscoring opportunities against MCDR but still forged a fine partnership with towering striker Ahmed Gaafar, who scored twice to help Zamalek to a hard-fought win. "There are no regular players and no substitutes, we all serve Zamalek. Gaafar's display tonight was terrific," Zaki added. The 27-year-old is hoping his displays could convince Egypt coach Hassan Shehata to recall him to the Pharaohs' squad ahead of their next African Cup of Nations qualifiers against Niger. Shehata snubbed the former Wigan Athletic man for the 1-1 draw at home to Sierra Lone after accusing him of feigning injury. "I have a special nine-year-old relationship with Shehata. I respect him and accept his decisions whatever they are," Zaki commented. "I'm doing my best with Zamalek to break into Egypt's squad. I hope to achieve that aim."
