Ahli, who host Hodoud's neighbors Ittihad later on Sunday, are six points clear on top of the table, a few days before the eagerly-anticipated Cairo derby.

Following some ill-tempered events, Zamalek failed to capitalize on their rival's stumble at Arab Contractors last week, drawing at home with Police Union.

This time Hossam Hassan's men are aware they can't afford dropping any more points, knowing that the Reds have a game in hand.

"It’s a difficult game especially after the disappointing draw last week, but we are eager to keep our good form with Hossam," assistant coach Tarek Soliman said.

Zamalek are on a superb 14-match unbeaten run under Hassan, who was last defeated by Hodoud in December.

Tarek Al-Ashri's team are also enjoying a fine streak of late, having not lost in eight straight games.

Zamalek will be without key stopper Mahmoud Fathallah, while Hazem Emam and Alaa Ali are suspended for their part in the chaos that marred the Police game.

Ahli vs. Ittihad

In Cairo, Ahli take on Ittihad amid some significant absentees from both sides, while former Reds skipper Shadi Mohamed faces his old club.

"Personally, it is a very difficult night for me because I will face the fans of Cairo Stadium for the first time since I have left," said Shadi, who was released by Ahli last summer after ten glorious seasons.

Apart from the absence of unsettled striker Mohamed Ragab 'Reio', Ittihad will be without CAN 2010 hero Geddo due to suspension.

Ahli will also be without three international stars as Ahmed Hassan, Emad Meteb and Sayed Moawad miss out for various reasons.

Veteran Hassan is rested in an attempt to be fully fit for Zamalek, Meteb is suspended and Moawad has been ruled out with a foot injury.