Pyramids FC stunned Orlando Pirates to secure their place in the CAF Champions League final, overcoming the South African side in a nail-biting semi-final that left fans on the edge of their seats.
The match, which saw both teams battling fiercely for a coveted final spot, started with Orlando Pirates showing early intent.
Deon Hotto looked to create an opportunity with a dangerous cutback, but Pyramids quickly regained control. Just two minutes into the match, Mostafa Fathi came close to giving the Egyptian side the lead, but his shot was wide.
Orlando Pirates had their first real opportunity in the 10th minute. Mofokeng and Hotto combined brilliantly to set up Evidence Makgopa, but the South African striker’s shot was well saved by Pyramids’ goalkeeper Ahmed El Shenawy.
READ MORE:CAF CL: Al Ahly fans left speechless as Mamelodi Sundowns pull off cold-blooded finish in Cairo
Despite more chances from Thalente Mbatha and Makhehleni Makhaula, Pirates couldn’t break the deadlock.
The breakthrough came in the 41st minute when Mofokeng capitalized on a loose ball from a Hotto free-kick, giving Pirates the lead. They were nearly able to extend their advantage through Nkota, but his shot went off target.
Photo Credit: X
Just as Pirates looked to take a 1-0 lead into the break, Pyramids responded with a quick equalizer. Mayele’s strike in the dying seconds of the first half left the score tied at 1-1, setting up an intense second half.
After the restart, Pyramids came out strong, testing Pirates goalkeeper Sipho Chaine early on. But it was the visitors who reclaimed the lead in the 52nd minute, with Nkota finding the back of the net to put Pirates ahead 2-1.
CLICK HERE TO JOIN THE ATHLETIC NG WHATSAPP CHANNEL NOW!
However, Pyramids were quick to strike back. Ramadan Sobhi made an instant impact with his first touch, scoring to level the game at 2-2.
The Egyptian side’s pressure eventually paid off in the 84th minute, when Mayele netted his second goal of the night, securing a 3-2 victory on aggregate and sending Pyramids into the final.
The 3-2 aggregate defeat ended Pirates’ journey in this year’s CAF Champions League, while Pyramids FC will now advance to the final to face Mamelodi Sundowns.
