The Algerian champions were drawn against their Egyptian counterparts in Group B, which also comprises runners-up Esperance of Tunisia and Wydad Casablanca/Simba Sports.

While last year’s semi-finalists Ahli and Esperance are deemed favorites to repeat the feat this term, the giant duo is warned by the Algerian outsiders.

“Ahli will wave goodbye to the competition from an early stage. Their poor form in the domestic league suggests that,” Zekri, whose side are currently 11th in the Algerian league only three points off the relegation zone, told Elheddaf newspaper.

“I think we will go through with Esperance as Ahli usually rely on ageing players, which will make it difficult for them to cope with the level of competition.

“Everyone is talking like Ahli and Esperance have already qualified, but we are well aware of that psychological war often started by our neighbors in Tunisia and Egypt.

“Both teams have higher facilities than we do. Esperance can spend $1M on a player, which is the sum of values of all our players combined, while Ahli have an independent training ground, while we do not!

“But the Algerian player usually banks on his high spirit and determination against any hurdle, especially against rivals from North Africa.”

Ahli struggled in their most recent confrontation with an Algerian opposition last term when JS Kabyile frustrated them in a 1-1 draw in Cairo before winning 1-0 in Tizi Ouzou.