The former Egypt international will meet Ahli in the round of 16, having been one of the candidates to manage the Cairo giants a few years ago.

"Ahli are the best in Africa. If we can beat them, we can beat any team," former Harras Hodoud coach Al-Ashri said.

"We must give them the credit they deserve. I think winning this tie would be Ahli Benghazi's gateway to the Champions League final."

On the other hand, Ahli boss Mohamed Youssef played down personal competition with Al-Ashri.

"Al-Ashri is a well-respected manager but there is no personal duel with him," Youssef told Ahli's website.

Al-Ashri is remembered for upsetting Ahli in the Egypt Cup final and Super Cup a few years ago.

Benghazi should host the first leg on March 21/22 in Tunisia.