Mazembe manager Lamine N’Diaye does not believe the absence of home support will irritate Ahli in the eagerly-anticipated Champions League clash.

The Egyptian champions are forced to play behind closed doors for security reasons as both African giants kick off their group stage campaign on Sunday at the Military Academy.

While most visiting teams are usually lifted by the absence of Egyptian fans, coach N’Diaye believes it could be in favor of the hosts.

“The presence of fans could be deceptive at times especially when the team is not playing well,” the Senegalese told Mazembe’s website.

“We believe that Ahli will play without pressure, so it is an open game. The chances of both teams are 50-50.”

While Ahli host the four-time champions in Cairo, city rivals Zamalek play Berekum Chelsea of Ghana in Accra on Saturday.