Photo courtesy of Al Ahly FC
The Red Devils drew their last two games in the CAF Champions League, against Tanzania’s Young Africans and Algerian side JS Kabylie, and were also held to a draw by NBE Club in the domestic league.
Despite the continental draws, Ahly have already secured a place in the Champions League quarter-finals with one group match remaining.
Domestically, however, they have struggled for consistency and sit fourth in the league standings with 27 points, eight behind leaders Ceramica Cleopatra, who have played two matches more.
Ahly will be without several key players on Wednesday.
Ahmed Sayed “Zizo” and Mahmoud Hassan “Trezeguet” are sidelined with muscle injuries, while midfielder Emam Ashour continues to serve an internal suspension.
Coach Jess Thorup named Moroccan left back Youssef Belammari and Angolan striker Ieltsin Camoes among his squad, with out-of-favour forward Mohamed Sherif also included.
Ismaily, meanwhile, are enduring a difficult season and remain in the relegation zone with just 10 points from 15 matches.
The club recently appointed veteran coach Tarek El-Ashry to replace Algerian Miloud Hamdi following a poor run of results. The 61-year-old will take charge of his second match after beginning his tenure with a defeat by Modern Sport two weeks ago.
The “Dervishes” are seeking to revive their survival hopes and end a long winless streak against Ahly. Their last victory over the defending champions dates back to the 2010-11 season, having since lost 15 matches and drawn seven.
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