Egypt's sole Champions League representative eye last-8 spot

Zamalek will be hoping a 2009 scenario that saw the African Champions League group stage devoid of Egyptian sides will not be repeated when they host Zambia's Nkana FC in the second leg of the competition's round of 16 on Sunday. Ahly, Zamalek's arch-rivals and the winners of the past two Champions League editions, were eliminated Saturday after losing 3-2 at home to Libya's Ahly Benghazi for a 4-2 aggregate defeat. Five years ago, Ahly were knocked out at the same last-16 stage in the absence of Zamalek, marking a rare Egyptian mishap at Africa's premier club competition. On paper, Zamalek are favourites to advance to the last eight after holding Nkana to a goalless draw away from home but their recent slip-ups in the Egyptian Premier League cast doubts over their chances of winning their first continental title since 2002. Their fans are also worried over an alleged strained relationship between new chairman Mortada Mansour, an outspoken lawyer who won Friday's elections to return to the club for a third stint, and coach Mido. Mansour, who is known for his fiery remarks and constant squabbles with opponents, said he would support Mido on condition that he stays away from political discussions when he appears on any television show. The rookie coach, a Zamalek fan favourite, insisted there would be no problems between him and Mansour. "I know that the fans are worried ... but I assure you that I will work with Mansour to lift the club out of its crisis," the former Marseille and Tottenham Hotspur marksman said on his Twitter account. "The start will be tomorrow by qualifying for the African Champions League group stage." Zamalek have no injury worries ahead of the game, which will take place at the army-owned Air Defence Stadium in Cairo. It will be played behind closed doors due to security concerns. Source: Ahram Online