Egypt striker Ahmed Ali promises Saudi side Al-Hilal supporters they will defeat Qatar's Al-Gharafa when they meet today in the AFC Champions League group stage.

“We have a better chance to win to progress in this difficult tournament,” Ali told Saudi newspaper Al-Jazirah on Wednesday.

The talented striker joined the Saudi giants in January on a six-month loan deal from Ismaily. After a slow start, he has become an integral member of the team amid reports that they are aiming now to make his loan deal permanent.

The Saudi giants need to win or draw to ensure their place in the last 16 as they top their group with Iranian side Sepahan, both on 10 points, three ahead of third-placed Al-Gharafa.

“The match will be very difficult as they are in a must-win situation, but may God help us to stop them to please our supporters,” the Pharaohs star explained.

The Saudi league title-holders usually appear humble at home in the continental competition, but at this stage, things are becoming serious so they will be tougher according to the 22-year old hit man Ali.

“Earlier, we were negatively affected by the quick sequence of matches, but now we enjoy sufficient periods of rest,” Ali said.

“We are capable of showing our worth in the coming matches, especially with the warm support of our fans,” he concluded.

Ali has scored five goals for Al-Hilal in all competitions so far, leading them to clinch the Saudi Crown Prince Cup title, the 51st in their history.