The centre-back, who joined Ahli from their fierce rivals Ismaili in the close season, was not included in the team's 18-man squad for the game.

The Red Devils did not disclose the reasons behind his omission.

Energetic midfielder Mohamed Barakat was left out of the squad as he is yet to recover from a pelvic injury that sidelined him in the latter stages of last season.

Strike duo Ahmed Belal and Mohamed Fadl are also injured. Ahli coach Hossam Al-Badri is expected to pick two of Liberian Francis Doe, Osama Hosni and Hani Al-Egeizi to form his side's attack.

Algerian playmaker Amir Sayoud will have a chance to make his competitive debut with the league holders.

Ahli squad:

Goalkeepers: Amir Abdul-Hamid, Ahmed Abdul-Monem

Defenders: Wael Gomaa, Mohamed Samir, Ahmed Ali, Ahmed Fathi, Sayed Moawad, Gilberto

Midfielders: Mostafa Shebeita, Ahmed Hassan, Abdullah Farouk, Moataz Eno, Hossam Ashour, Amir Sayoud, Mohamed Abou-Treika

Strikers: Osama Hosni, Francis Doe, Hani Al-Egeizi