The Egypt left-back joined Ahli from Turkish side Trabzonspor last summer.

He had to play second-fiddle to Angolan winger Gilberto, who has been one of the mainstays of Ahli's squad during the past few years.

But after Ahli coach Manuel Jose rested Gilberto recently, Moawad was given a chance to prove his worth and he grasped it with both hands.

"I used to play on a regular basis during my career, so my performances were affected by having to sit on the bench after joining Ahli," he told Al-Hayat TV.

"But I've now regained my self-confidence. I feel that I'm not being considered as a back-up left-back anymore."

The 29-year-old was one of the few Ahli players who shined during the team's disappointing World Club Cup campaign.

He also put in a fine display in the Red Devils' precious win over Ismaili on Saturday night.

"Just today I felt that I belong to Ahli," Moawad concluded.