The Ahly vs. Ismaily fixture has traditionally been a pinnacle of Egyptian football, but Ismaily's prominence has faded away in recent years, with their last victory over Ahly, 3-1, dating back to 21 November 2010.

The Red Devils, fueled by their recent qualification for the CAF Champions League final, are now turning their attention to the domestic league, aiming to secure a crucial win against Ismaily in one of Egypt's most intense rivalries.

Currently positioned 11th on the table with 21 points from 11 matches, Ahly trail the league leaders Pyramids FC by 14 points, albeit having played five games less.

Marcel Koller's men have faced setbacks in recent fixtures, winning only one of their last four matches against, Zed FC, suffering defeats against Zamalek and NBE Club, and drawing with Enppi.

Nevertheless, the return of key players like veteran defender Yasser Ibrahim, international midfielder Marwan Attia, Malian midfielder Aliou Dieng, and winger Hussein El Shahat from injuries is expected to bolster Ahly's lineup.

On the flip side, Ismaily have struggled, securing just one win in their last seven games and currently sitting 13th on the table with 19 points from 19 matches.

Former Egypt coach Ehab Galal is relying on experienced campaigners to navigate Ismaily out of their predicament, with former internationals Marwan Hamdy and Bassem Morsy, Tunisian fullback Hamdi Nagguez, and Burkinabé winger Eric Traore all included in the squad for this crucial match.

The presence of two-time Egyptian League top scorer Ahmed El Sheikh, alongside inspirational winger Abdel-Rahman Magdy, further strengthens Ismaily's resolve as they aim to distance themselves from the relegation zone, currently just six points above the bottom three.

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