Cairo derby sought to decide winners of transfer race

Another sub-contest will take place between the Cairo duo, who meet in the group stage opener at Cairo stadium.

Every club will be looking to prove that their close-season signings are much more valuable than the acquisitions of the other side.

Both sides were busy in the transfer market, confronting each other over the signing of several players.

The transfer duels have increased the traditional rivalry between them.

Ahli fans accused Zamalek of trying to snatch players from under their noses, and vice versa.

Ahli landed Egypt captain Ahmed Hassan, who was believed to be much closer to Zamalek. The Whites signed their former midfielder Ayman Abdul-Aziz as replacement.

And Zamalek responded by acquiring the services of Ghanaian international striker Junior Agogo in a mega deal.

But it was Hani Saied's transfer saga that further stoked the tensions between the fans of both clubs.

Saied initially agreed to join Zamalek from Ismaili, only to retract his stance few hours later. He said his wish was to join Ahli.

But he eventually moved to Zamalek due to the preliminary agreement he signed with the White Castle.