Egypt's top trio Ahli, Zamalek and Ismaili all failed to beat Tarek Al-Ashri's men last term, which saw them retain the cup title and win the Super Cup in 2009.

"We are not just superior over Ahli, but I think we have become specialized in beating all big teams," Hodoud skipper Halim told FilGoal.com.

"We play well against Zamalek and Ismaili as well and we are now capable of becoming true contestants to them.

"I think this is down to the manager's attacking approach against big teams. He usually tells us not to be nervous and play freely."

Hodoud, who qualified for the quarter-finals of the African Confederation Cup, finished sixth in the league last term.