The Ahli man, who put in some impressive displays in Egypt's triumphant Nations Cup campaign last month, will deputize for injured defender Mahmoud Fathallah.

He played in that position when Egypt beat Ghana 1-0 in the Nations Cup final in Angola.

Hossam Ghaly will partner Hosni Abd-Rabou in the heart of the Pharaohs' midfield while skipper Ahmed Hassan will be given an advanced role to support attacking duo Emad Meteb and Mohamed Zidan.

Inspirational playmaker Mohamed Abou-Treika, who is still short of match fitness, will start on the bench.

Egypt's starting line-up:

Goalkeeper: Essam Al-Hadari

Defenders: Hani Saied, Wael Gomaa, Ahmed Fathi

Midfielders: Ahmed Al-Muhammadi, Hosni Abd-Rabou, Hossam Ghaly, Ahmed Hassan, Sayed Moawad

Strikers: Emad Meteb, Mohamed Zidan