Veteran goalkeeper Essam Al-Hadari, who has recently recovered from a foot injury, was included in the starting line-up as well.

Versatile midfielder Ahmed Fathi will be fielded as a central defender to play alongside Hani Saied and Wael Gomaa in a three-man backline.

Ahmed Al-Muhammadi will play as a right wing-back, with mercurial midfielder Mohamed Barakat occupying the other flank.

Middlesbrough's Mohamed Shawky will partner Ahli's Ahmed Hassan in the heart of Egypt's midfield.

Ahli Dubai midfielder Hosni Abd Rabou, Wigan Athletic striker Mido and Ahli playmaker Mohamed Abou-Treika will start on the bench.