Salama, who stepped down from his role as ENPPI manager in August, took charge of Masri shortly after his predecessor Bertalan Bicskei was relieved of his duties late in the same month.

The coastal outfit have always been tough opponents for Ahli, and Wednesday's Egyptian Premier League meeting is widely expected to be more competitive than ever.

"These matches are always pulsating, irrespective of each team's position in the league table," Al-Badri told Ahli's official site.

"But this year Masri will come on with more determination to win, especially that Salama will be seeking to register a win on his debut."

Masri are struggling in 12th place with three points in the league table, which should acts as another motive for them to pull off a good result.

Ahli are solely on top with 10 points.