Egyptian champions Ahli were drawn against Esperance of Tunisia, Mouloudia Algeria of Algeria and the winner from the tie between Wydad Casablanca and Simba Sports.

While a crunch challenge is anticipated with last year’s runners-up Esperance, Barakat seemed unfazed.

“I believe the draw is not that tough. The level of the teams we will face is normal and I think we’ll be ready for that,” Barakat, who scored the goal that sent Ahli to the group stage, told FilGoal.com.

“We are not afraid to play against North African teams. The so-called North African jinx was over a long time ago.”

Barakat was sent off in the 1-0 defeat at Esperance last year; the result which saw Ahli wave goodbye to the Champions League from the semis.