With a 0-0 first-leg stalemate in Johannesburg, Pyramids FC and Orlando Pirates clash in Cairo’s 30 June Stadium on April 25 for a historic CAF Champions League final berth. The away goals rule looms large, amplifying the stakes as both sides vie to etch their names in African football folklore.
Pyramids’ Croatian tactician Krunoslav Jurcic has molded a side blending attacking flair with defensive solidity. Boasting the tournament’s best attack (2.3 goals per game) and a 26-match unbeaten home streak, his 4-5-1 system hinges on wing play and Ramadan Sobhi’s creativity.
Conversely, Orlando Pirates’ José Riveiro, departing at season’s end, has revitalized the Buccaneers with a pragmatic 4-3-3. His emphasis on youth—like breakout defender Mbekezeli Mbokazi—and a watertight defense (five consecutive clean sheets) underscores their resilience.
Players to watch:
Pyramids’ Congolese striker Fiston Mayele (6 CL goals) and playmaker Ramadan Sobhi (5 assists) are pivotal, while returning winger Ibrahim Adel (12 goals this season) adds firepower.
For Pirates, midfielder Patrick Maswanganyi drives transitions, and fullback Deon Hotto anchors a defense yet to concede in six CL knockout games.
Pirates edged Algeria’s MC Alger 1-0 on aggregate, showcasing tactical adaptability under Riveiro. Pyramids survived a scare against AS FAR, advancing 4-3 despite a second-leg loss, underlining their explosive attack.
Pyramids aim for their first-ever CL final, cementing their rise as an African powerhouse. Pirates, finalists in 2013, seek redemption and a chance to reclaim continental glory after 30 years.
With Egypt and South Africa dominating the semis, this tie also symbolizes a regional rivalry for continental supremacy. Expect a tense, low-scoring battle. Pyramids’ home edge and Pirates’ defensive grit could force extra time, but Jurcic’s men might edge it 1-0, propelled by Mayele’s poise
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