Mamelodi Sundowns and Pyramids FC Set for Epic CAF Champions League Final
The stage is set for a thrilling showdown in the TotalEnergies CAF Champions League final, as Mamelodi Sundowns and Pyramids FC both secured their spots in the title decider following dramatic semi-final performances.
Sundowns Edge Past Al Ahly on Away Goals
In a tense semi-final clash, Mamelodi Sundowns held Al Ahly to a 1-1 draw at the Cairo International Stadium, progressing on the away goals rule. After a goalless stalemate in the first leg in Pretoria, it was Al Ahly who drew first blood, with Taher Mohamed firing the hosts ahead midway through the first half.
Backed by a passionate home crowd, Al Ahly dominated the first half, looking poised to break their winless streak against Sundowns. However, the South African side displayed remarkable resilience. With just ten minutes remaining, a low cross led to an own goal from Yasser Ibrahim, leveling the score at 1-1 and sealing Sundowns’ advancement to the final.
Despite a frantic late push from Al Ahly, Sundowns held firm, marking a significant milestone as they remain unbeaten against the Egyptian giants in their last nine encounters. They now await their final opponent, having achieved a momentous victory that dashed Al Ahly’s hopes of a record-extending title.
Late Mayele Heroics Send Pyramids into Historic First Final
In the other semi-final, Pyramids FC secured a thrilling 3-2 victory over Orlando Pirates, marking the club’s first-ever appearance in the CAF Champions League final. After a goalless first leg in Johannesburg, the action ignited in Cairo at the 30 June Air Defence Stadium.
Orlando Pirates struck first through Relebohile Mofokeng, but Pyramids quickly equalized with Fiston Mayele capitalizing on a cross from Mostafa Fathi just before halftime. The match continued to oscillate, with Pirates regaining the lead via a superb low drive from Mohau Nkota shortly after the break.
However, Pyramids showcased their determination. Ramadan Sobhi equalized moments later with a powerful header from a Mohamed Chibi cross. The decisive moment came just six minutes from the end when Mayele scored his second, reacting quickly to a goalmouth scramble following a corner kick.
Despite late pressure from the Pirates, Pyramids held on to their lead, extending their remarkable unbeaten home record to 23 matches and securing their place in the final against Sundowns.
