Raouf, an integral member in ENPPI’s attack since joining in 2008, is currently serving a one-match suspension after picking out his fourth yellow card last season.

“We cannot play against Ahli without Raouf. He is an indispensable member in my squad,” former Harras Hodoud manager Al-Ashri told FilGoal.com.

“I hope the competition’s committee would accept our appeal against his ban, given that the suspension is due to a fourth yellow card and not misconduct.”

Ahli clash with cup champions ENPPI at the Army Stadium in Alexandria on Sunday in a game that will be staged behind closed doors.

Coach Al-Ashri, who has been at Hodoud’s helm for six years steering them to the 2009 Super Cup, left the military side last season following the cancellation of the league when his team had been topping the table.