Preview: Big challenges for Ahli, Ismaili

Egypt's Champions League representatives Ahli and Ismaili face stern challenges against JS Kabylie and Heartland in a decisive Group B day.

Egyptian champions Ahli are out to save their continental hopes against highflying leaders Kabylie of Algeria at Cairo Stadium.

An encounter surrounded by fears of unrest following Ahli's unpleasant trip to Tizi Ouzou a fortnight ago, ending with a 1-0 defeat.

While the Algerians need a point to reach the semi-finals, Ahli know that anything less than a victory would place them into an ordeal.

Hossam Al-Badri's side haven’t enjoyed the best of starts this season, having uncommonly dropped four points from their first three league games.

A disappointing draw with Masri suggested that a difficult season lies ahead, even so one positive outcome from the game was the maiden goal of top signing Geddo.

"I was very happy to score my first goal and now I feel hungry to score more and make the fans happy," said the Egypt forward.

"I am looking forward to doing it again in the Kabylie match. I even hope to score four goals in order to satisfy the fans and help the team win.

"It is a very important game; our chance to respond to what happened in Algeria."

Geddo, who scored for Egypt against Algeria in the 4-0 CAN 2010 victory, is set to spearhead Ahli's three-man attack along with Mohamed Abou-Treika and main striker Mohamed Fadl.

Ahli will miss skipper Hossam Ghaly who was sent off in the fiery defeat at Kabylie, while his midfield partner Hossam Ashour is doubtful with a knee injury.

Ismaili strike at the Heart


Godwin: A Nigerian out to down his fellow countrymen

In Nigeria, Ismaili are in a must-win test against last year's finalists Heartland, who also have no option but to bag the three points.

The Dervishes, who claimed a less-than-impressive victory in Ismailia two weeks ago, have been in prefect form domestically with three wins out of three so far.

Mark Wotte's men, who insisted on fasting the day, will have to battle it in broad daylight against a team who have never lost at home in Africa.

The poor condition of the pitch in Owerri will be another major concern for the visitors, who basically rely on slick passing in their game.

For this reason, Wotte had to train his players on long balls during the past few days in an attempt to dismantle the Nigerian opposition.

Ismaili will have to turn to a Nigerian for that task though, as in-form striker Godwin Ndubuisi will be the man to watch.