Ahly beat Ceramica 2-1 at the same stage in the previous edition before going on to claim the title at the expense of Zamalek in the final.
The Egyptian champions are not at their best this season, sitting second in the domestic league with 23 points — three behind leaders Ceramica Cleopatra, who have impressed with strong performances throughout the campaign.
Ahly, however, will take confidence from their dominant record against Ceramica, having gone unbeaten in 13 meetings, with 11 wins and two draws, including a 1-0 league victory earlier this season.
Danish coach Jess Thorup admitted the semi-final will be a difficult test given the quality of the opposition but said his side are determined to fight for a place in the final as he seeks his first trophy with the Red Devils.
Thorup will have most of his key players available, though long-term absentees Emam Ashour and Mohamed Sherif, who both travelled with the squad, are unlikely to feature.
Ahly’s defensive vulnerabilities remain a concern for the coach, with the team conceding 13 goals in 12 league matches. Thorup has vowed to tighten the backline.
Ceramica, meanwhile, are targeting a first-ever win over the Cairo giants as they aim to reach the final and lift the trophy.
In contrast to Ahly, Ceramica boast one of the league’s strongest defences and their position at the top of the table has fuelled belief within the squad.
Coach Ali Maher will rely on the experience and quality of players such as former Ahly midfielder Amr El-Soulaya, winger Sodiq Awujoola, striker Fagrie Lakay and midfielder Ahmed Belhadj.
Both coaches have acknowledged the challenge ahead, expecting a tightly contested match.
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