Al Ahly are reportedly anxious ahead of their CAF Champions League showdown against Orlando Pirates as they gear up for a challenging trip to South Africa.
According to Ahram, the reigning continental champions are grappling with unease following a goalless draw against National Bank of Egypt SC in domestic action on Sunday.
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The inability to break through the side's resolute defence is said to have left manager Marcel Koller and his technical staff apprehensive about their team's readiness for continental competition.
Adding to Al Ahly's concerns is uncertainty surrounding key forward Wissam Abu Ali, who is recovering from a stress fracture in his foot. His availability for the clash remains doubtful, with a final decision expected within 48 hours.
Meanwhile, influential midfielder Imam Ashour is ruled out due to what is believed to be disciplinary sanctions following an alleged dispute with club captain Mohamed El Shenawy.
This internal conflict and Ashour's absence is said to have further disrupted the Club of the Century's preparations.
Orlando Pirates, historically one of Al Ahly's toughest African opponents, will present a significant challenge.
While Al Ahly defeated the Buccaneers enroute to winning the 2013 CAF Champions League, the South African side boasts a record of being the only team to defeat Al Ahly twice on Egyptian soil in CAF tournaments.
The Red Devils were humbled 3-0 by Pirates in the 2013 group stages and suffered a 4-3 loss in the 2015 CAF Confederation Cup.
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Both sides emerged victorious from their opening game, but will be tested once more when they go head to head in a Group C encounter on Saturday afternoon.