The Red Devils have moved eight points clear from Zamalek. This is a step in the right direction to regain the league title lost to their rivals over the past two seasons.

Under the leadership of Swiss Marcel Koller, Ahly have been unbeaten since the beginning of the season. They have also recently advanced to Egypt Cup final.

Ahly will have to contend, however, with a raft of injuries that hit their several key players especially at the back. Players who are injured include central defenders Mohamed Abdel-Moneim, Yasser Ibrahim and veteran left back Ali Maaloul. Akram Tawfik and Karim Fouad are out with lenghty knee injuries.

An ecstatic Mahmoud Kahraba, who returned from suspension to score two goals in two games, has yet to pass a fitness test, while central midfielder Amr El-Sulaya and Brazilian winger Bruno Savio are also doubtful after missing the past couple of games.

Meanwhile, NBE club dropped into the relegation zone with 12 points after 14 games. They appointed their third coach of the season, Amir Abdel-Aziz, following Helmi Toulan and Khaled Galal.

Ahly will fly to Morocco after the game as they are set to play Auckland City of New Zealand in the first round of the FIFA Club World Cup on 1 February.

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