The central defender was omitted from the squad that faced Ghazl Mahalla in Ahli's last Egyptian League game before heading to Japan.

Versatile midfielder Ahmed Fathi, who put in some fine displays lately after recovering from a serious Achilles injury, also features among Ahli's starting eleven.

Angolan Flavio Amado will play as a lone striker and is likely to be supported by attacking midfielders Mohamed Barakat and Mohamed Abou-Treika.

Ahli's line-up:

Goalkeeper: Amir Abdul-Hamid

Defenders: Shadi Mohamed, Wael Gomaa, Ahmed Al-Sayed

Midfielders: Mohamed Barakat, Ahmed Fathi, Hossam Ashour, Ahmed Hassan, Mohamed Abou-Treika, Gilberto

Striker: Flavio Amado