According to Ahli's official website, Serbian coach Jesic said Ittihad would face an easy task against the six-time African champions in the first leg of the competition's round of 16.

"This is his point of view. Maybe he tries to affect our morale with such words," Al-Badri said on Wednesday.

"However, we are used to that. Those kinds of mind games do not affect us, the players are very confident and they are not worried."

Ahli, who won the last of their six Champions League titles in 2008, are looking to avoid last season's scenario when they lost to Nigeria's Kano Pillars at the same round to miss out on a place in the group stage.

They will probably have to contend with an electrifying atmosphere at the 80,000-seater 11 June stadium.

The Red Devils will be without top scorer and Egypt striker Emad Meteb, who is nursing a back complaint.

Versatile midfielder Ahmed Fathi, right-back Ahmed Ali and central defender Mohamed Samir will be also missing due to injuries.

"We have to deal with any problems we face. Our substitutes can fill the gaps we have," Al-Badri added.

"The match will be difficult because Ittihad are a good team who notably improved recently, but we are determined to win and reach the last-eight phase."