Egyptian side Pyramids secured a dramatic 3-2 victory over Orlando Pirates in Cairo on Friday night, booking their place in the final of the TotalEnergies CAF Champions League for the first time in their history.
After a goalless first leg in Johannesburg, both sides came out determined at the 30 June Air Defence Stadium. It was the Pirates who struck first when Relebohile Mofokeng slotted home from close range midway through the first half.
However, the lead was short-lived. Pyramids equalized just before half-time, with Fiston Mayele capitalizing on a cross from Mostafa Fathi to restore parity.
The end-to-end nature of the contest continued after the break, and the Pirates regained their advantage when Mohau Nkota fired in a superb low drive in the 52nd minute.
Yet the Egyptian side showed their resolve in front of their home fans. Ramadan Sobhi rose highest to meet a cross from Mohamed Chibi, heading past Sipho Chaine to make it 2-2 just moments later.
The decisive moment came with just six minutes remaining. After a goalmouth scramble from a corner, Mayele reacted quickest, hammering the ball into the roof of the net and sparking wild celebrations among the home supporters.
Despite late pressure from the South African visitors, including efforts from Tshegofatso Mabasa and Relebohile Mofokeng, Pyramids held on to secure a famous win, extending their remarkable unbeaten home record to 23 matches.
As a result, Pyramids will face Mamelodi Sundownsโwho earlier eliminated Al Ahly on away goalsโin what promises to be an exciting final. For Orlando Pirates, it was a brave effort but ultimately fell short, ending their hopes of a second CAF Champions League title.
