The bitter Cairo rivals, who were also paired together last season, clash once again in Group A alongside Leopards of Congo and South Africa’s Orlando Pirates.

Leopards - the reigning champions of the African Confederation Cup - lost marginally to Ahli in the Super Cup final in Alexandria earlier this year.

Another tough opponent will be Pirates, who are believed to be the surprise package of the tournament after ousting four-time champs Mazembe from the round of 16.

The opening round will see Zamalek host Ahli on 19/20/21 July.

The other group will see runners-up Esperance compete against Cameroon’s Cotonsport and group-stage debutants Recreativo de Libolo of Angola and Sewe Sport from Ivory Coast.