“There is a basic rule in marking which says that the defender should remain close to his man to put pressure on him, but with Gaafar it is different,” Gomaa, Africa’s best defender in 2010, told FilGoal.com.

“You should deny the ball from reaching him, especially in the air where he is good.

“He is a competent striker with fine physique and good ability in the air. It is an advantage for me when I respect my opponent and his team.”

Age

On the other hand, Gaafar revealed his plan to rise to the challenge of Egypt’s most consistent defender during the past decade.

“He is a great defender; one of the best in Egypt and Africa, but he has been suffering from a dip in form lately, “the 25-year-old Gaafar said.

“However, I have to be cautious because he always makes it hard for anyone playing against him.

“My height and aerial ability are my primary weapons against the challenge of Gomaa. Age will also play a role and this gives me an advantage.”

Gaafar, who is ten years younger than Gomaa, scored a powerful header in last season’s 3-3 league draw with Ahli, with less than a minute after kickoff.