Bur Dubai derbies always have “special importance” despite the latest meeting being in the Arabian Gulf Cup, according to Al Wasl coach Gabriel Calderon.

The second round of group-stage matches resumes tomorrow night, attention centering on the match between hosts Al Nasr and the Leopards.

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Some senior stars such as the Blue Wave’s DR Congo call-up Jires Kembo Ekoko will be absent at at Al Maktoum Stadium, but the Argentine supremo is ready for a key contest.

He said: “A derby match against Al Nasr always has a special importance. We will prepare for the game seriously. This is especially important as Nasr in their previous games seemed in excellent condition both physically and technically.

“The Arabian Gulf Cup is an important championship for us and we take all tournaments and matches very seriously.”

Meanwhile, the rest of the action will see last season’s beaten finalists Sharjah kick off their campaign with a trip to Fujairah. The King had a bye in the first round of matches.

Severely-depleted AGL champions Al Ain host Al Shabab on the same night, while Emirates Club meet Al Dhafra, Al Wahda travel to Dibba Al Fujairah and Al Ahli play Al Shaab on Saturday.