The defending champions currently sit second with 23 points, trailing leaders Pyramids FC by a single point.
Newly promoted Petrojet have made an impressive start, occupying sixth place with 17 points and looking to further cement their position in the upper half of the table.
Swiss coach Marcel Koller will have to navigate a growing injury crisis, with several key players unavailable.
Moroccan duo Yahya Attiat Allah and Achraf Dari are sidelined, the former recovering from a facial fracture and the latter undergoing rehabilitation. Reda Slim remains out with a knee injury, while Karim Fouad continues his recovery from an ACL tear. Achraf Bencharki, Yasser Ibrahim, and Tarek Mohamed Tarek are also unavailable due to various muscle injuries, further depleting Ahly’s options. Tunisian defender Ali Maaloul is still absent.
Despite these challenges, Koller remains optimistic about his team’s chances. "We have to be ready despite the challenges," Koller said. "It’s a tough period, but our objective remains unchanged—winning and moving back to the top of the table."
Petrojet, meanwhile, are determined to test Ahly’s resolve. The newly promoted side has enjoyed a solid campaign so far and will be eager to cause an upset.
Petrojet football director Mohamed Ayman acknowledged the difficulty of facing the defending champions but expressed confidence. "Ahly is a great team and the reigning league champion, but we are well-prepared, and our players are ready to compete," Ayman said.
Ahly enter the match on the back of a 3-1 victory over Modern Sport in Round 11, while Petrojet were held to a goalless draw against Ittihad of Alexandria.
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