Masri will be hoping to enhance their poor league under new coach Anwar Salama by getting a positive result against the unbeaten Ahli in Port Said. Salama, a former Ahli player and coach, will face the champions in his first game in charge of Masri after taking over from Hungarian Bertalan Bicskei. "The game is important for the Port Said fans who can't wait to see the team under the management of a new staff," Salama told FilGoal.com. "Regardless of both teams' circumstances, Masri's games against Ahli are usually strong and I am confident my players can beat the leaders." Masri stunned Ahli in the corresponding fixture last season, winning 2-0 under Hossam Hassan, but the coastal side went seven games without a win afterwards. Ahli coach Hossam Al-Badri is aware that Masri will appear in new shape under Salama.
Treika out "Salama's presence adds another dimension to Masri, but we're still eager to get the three points in order to remain leaders," he said. Team News Al-Badri opted to rest playmaker Mohamed Abou-Treika, who was struggling with a knee injury of late, while Algerian starlet Amir Sayoud was excluded. But Mohamed Barakat returns to the squad after missing out on the Gaish win, as well as defensive midfielder Hossam Ashour. Out of favor goalkeeper Amir Abdul-Hamid replaces Ramzi Saleh in the 18-man squad, but is likely to make the bench.