The Cairo derby between Ahly and Zamalek is the oldest and most intense in Africa and the Middle East, and ranks among the biggest games in the world.

The city has already been holding its breath for over a week, and the vast majority of Egypt's nearly 120 million citizens, as well as millions others across the region, won't miss the spectacle.

“Not only is this one of the most important trophies to win in Africa, but it involves two arch-rivals with a rich history in African football. We want to deliver a high-quality match that shines a spotlight on Egyptian football,” Zamalek winger Ahmed "Zizo" El Sayed told Cafonline.

The two continental powerhouses will meet again in the Super Cup final, more than three decades after Ayman Mansour’s 86th-minute strike from 25 yards secured a 1-0 win for Zamalek, giving them their first of four titles on 16 January 1994, in Johannesburg, in a game that was dubbed the "African Game of the Century."

Ahly fans have long called for 'revenge,' as the Super Cup remains the only competition where Zamalek have a superior head-to-head record.

“I remember the huge pressure we were under back then. It was the first African final we ever played against each other. I don’t like the word revenge—there is no such thing in football. The fans have high hopes, given Ahly’s form, but the players must be humble and fight for every ball on the pitch because nothing else matters during the 90 minutes,” former Ahly and Egypt defender Mahmoud Abou Al-Dahab said on a radio program.

On paper, Ahly may be favorites, having recently dominated both the local and continental scenes. The Red Devils have won back-to-back league titles and claimed four of the last five CAF Champions League titles.

The record holders, who have eight Super Cup titles, have strengthened their squad by signing Moroccan internationals Achraf Dari and Yahia Attiat Allah, defender Ayman Youssef, and midfielder Omar El-Saayi.

Zamalek, meanwhile, have been grappling with financial difficulties but managed to bolster their squad, adding defenders Mohamed Hamdi and Algerian Mahmoud Bentayg, as well as forwards Omar Faraj and Konrad Michalak of Poland.

Battle of styles

On the pitch, it will be a battle of styles. Ahly rely on their collective strength, with a team that ticks nearly every box. They boast experienced goalkeeper Mohamed El Shennawy behind a solid defense, a dynamic midfield led by the inspirational playmaker Emam Ashour, and a clinical frontline spearheaded by Palestinian striker Wessam Abou Ali.

Zamalek, on the other hand, possess impressive individual talents, with playmaker Abdallah El Said dictating play through his intelligent use of space and passes. Zizo’s speed and directness make him a major threat, while Mostafa Shalaby’s darting runs down the left are troubling for any defense. Tunisian striker Seifeddin Jaziri adds experience and goalscoring instincts.

“I have faith in Zamalek's players, but Ahly are a formidable opponent, which compels us to remain vigilant throughout the match. We anticipate a thrilling contest, recognizing the strength of our rivals, who have a successful track record and benefit from Coach Koller’s strategies,” Zamalek coach Jose Gomes said at Thursday’s pre-game press conference.

Friday at 9 p.m. Cairo time promises to be a spectacle of excitement and passion. It’s simply unmissable.