Pyramids of Egypt clinch first CAF Champions League title

In Cairo, Egypt, on a Sunday evening, the Pyramids football team achieved a historic victory by winning the CAF Champions League for the first time. They faced off against Mamelodi Sundowns of South Africa in a tense final matchup. Both teams battled over two legs, with the first leg resulting in a 1-1 draw in Pretoria. In the decisive second leg, the Pyramids overcame late-game pressure and secured a 2-1 win, leading to a 3-2 aggregate victory. This success marked a significant milestone for Pyramids, solidifying their status as a rising power in African football. Key players included Congolese forward Fiston Mayele, who delivered an impressive performance, scoring the opening goal in the 23rd minute, followed by a second goal by Ahmed Samy early in the second half. Despite a late push from Sundowns, who scored in the 75th minute through Iqraam Rayners, they could not equalize, allowing Pyramids to celebrate their triumph. The accomplishment was particularly notable as it occurred during their second appearance in the tournament, showcasing the team’s rapid development and ambition. Pyramids, previously known as Al Assiouty, has emerged as a significant competitor in African football since moving to Cairo in 2018 and changing names. These recent victories, combined with strong financial backing, have allowed them to compete for top players on both domestic and international levels. The team's success is attributed not only to the players' performances but also to the strategic coaching of Krunoslav Jurcic. He opted for a more offensive style, contrary to the defensive tactics often employed by traditional Egyptian teams in past tournaments. Jurcic’s approach paid off, enabling Pyramids to outscore their opponents and claim the title. The coach’s vision, full of positive energy and proactive tactics, allowed Pyramids to evolve beyond mere local rivalry, providing a fresh perspective in high-stakes matches. This victory is a clear signal of the changing landscape of African football, where clubs like Pyramids are challenging the historical dominance of teams like Al Ahly and Zamalek. The triumph also serves as a testament to the rise of African football on the global stage. With only a few years since their rebranding, Pyramids has set a new high for themselves, aiming to continue their success in future tournaments and make their mark in the global football arena.