This derby will be crucial, says Al-Badri

Unlike previous seasons where they had an easy league ride, Ahli are in serious need for a win ahead of Thursday's meeting with their fallen arch-rivals, who have little to gain from the tie.

"This derby will be different from any other derby during the last five years because the result will be crucial for us," Al-Badri told Ahli's official site.

"In recent years, I think matches against Zamalek were not that significant to our league position.

"I believe if we won maximum points from our next two games, we will be so close to being champions."

Ahli are trailing league leaders Ismaili by a couple of points, but the former have two games in hand, including the Zamalek clash.

Pressure

Al-Badri conceded that the in-form Zamalek have nothing to lose from the game, amid their poor league position.

"Zamalek are buoyant by their recent win over Petrojet; also they are under no pressure because they're out of the title race, so they should play with no nerves," he added.

Zamalek claimed one victory out of 16 matches against Ahli in the past four years, including domestic and continental meetings.