On Sunday, Egyptian club Pyramids FC achieved a momentous milestone by clinching the African Champions League title, overcoming South Africa’s Mamelodi Sundowns with a score of 2-1 in the second leg of the final held at the Defense Stadium in Cairo.
The match commenced with Pyramids showcasing their attacking prowess early on. In the 23rd minute, midfielder Feston Mayele took advantage of a defensive miscue from Sundowns, seizing an opportunity to launch a powerful shot into the lower right corner of the net, giving Pyramids a 1-0 lead. This opening goal set the tone for Pyramids, energizing both the team and its supporters who had gathered in anticipation.
As the second half unfolded, Pyramids extended their advantage. Moroccan player Mohamed El-Shibhi orchestrated a brilliant piece of play by executing a precise free kick. His well-placed delivery found Ahmed Sami, who skillfully redirected the ball with a firm header into the back of the goal. This maneuver, occurring shortly after the break, pushed the score to 2-0, solidifying Pyramids’ grip on the match.
However, the game took a thrilling turn in the 75th minute when Sundowns managed to reduce the deficit. Ikram Rainier capitalized on a defensive lapse from Pyramids, scoring to bring the score to 2-1. Despite this setback, Pyramids maintained their composure and strategically controlled the remaining minutes to secure their victory.
In the first leg of the final, the teams had battled to a 1-1 draw. With Pyramids’ aggregate victory of 3-2 over both legs, they proudly emerged as champions, marking an important achievement in the club’s history. This victory not only adds a prestigious trophy to Pyramids’ cabinet but also establishes them as the fourth Egyptian team to win the African Champions League, joining historical giants Al Ahly, Zamalek, and Ismaily. This triumph makes Egypt the only country to have four different clubs crowned champions throughout the tournament’s illustrious history.
With this new title, Pyramids further enhances Egypt’s position in African football. Notably, under the revamped title of “African Champions League,” Egypt uniquely boasts three distinct champions, showcasing the nation’s dominance and rich footballing heritage.
The tournament’s outcome signifies a new era for Pyramids FC, who have solidified their place among Africa’s football elite. Their determination and strategic gameplay throughout the tournament culminated in this defining moment, capturing not only the championship title but also the hearts of their supporters, who have long awaited such success on a continental stage.
As Pyramids celebrates this historic victory, the club looks ahead with optimism and ambition, aiming to build on this success and leave an enduring legacy in African football. The victory serves as a source of inspiration for aspiring clubs across Africa—and particularly in Egypt, where the sport enjoys immense popularity—demonstrating that with perseverance and commitment, greatness is indeed attainable.
