Bafana Bafana star Percy Tau starts his third CAF Champions League final of his career as Al Ahly hosts champions Wydad Athletic Club for the first leg tie at the Cairo International Stadium this evening.
Tau had been rested for their clash against El Gaish two weeks ago which created a bit of a stir within the fan base with fears he suffered another injury.
But he returned in the 1-0 win over Ceramica Cleopatra this week that kept their push for the league title on track.
Marcel Koller, who has started Tau in every group game and knockout clash in the competition this season has been rewarded with nine goal contributions in 10 games and will look to the South African and in-form Kahraba for inspiration in front of 50,000 home supporters in the capital city.
Wydad arrive as slight underdogs for the first leg but pulled off a tactical, but pragmatic masterclass against Mamelodi Sundowns at Loftus Versfeld in the second leg semi-final to showcase they are well and capable of causing an upset for the return leg in Casablanca.
The appointment of Sven Vandenbroek last month has seemingly revitalised the confidence of the Botola Pro giants who are seeking back-to-back titles.
Here is how they line up:
Al Ahly XI: Shoubir, Hany (c), Ibarahim, Abdelmonem, Maaloul, Fathy, Dieng, Marawan, El Shahat, Kahraba, Tau.
Wydad XI:
El Motie, Frahane, Zola, Daoudi, Attiat-Allah, Jaadi, Jabrane (c), El Amloud, El Hassouni, El Moutaraji, Sambou.
