Pyramids FC Crowned Kings of Africa After Downing Mighty Mamelodi Sundowns

Pyramids FC have etched their name in the history books by clinching their first-ever CAF Champions League title, defeating Mamelodi Sundowns 2-1 on the night and 3-1 on aggregate in a tense second-leg final played in Cairo. The Egyptian outfit, only founded in 2008, completed a fairy-tale campaign that saw them eliminate continental heavyweights and eventually outclass the South African champions in a dramatic final.

Sundowns Undone by Missed Opportunities

Coming into the clash level at 1-1 after the first leg in Pretoria, Sundowns looked poised to finally add another continental crown to their glittering domestic dominance. The Pretoria giants started brightly, with early attacking intent through Lucas Ribeiro Costa and Iqraam Rayners, but their lack of composure in front of goal proved costly.

Sundowns’ big moment came deep into first-half added time, when Terrence Mashego’s substitute replacement, Thapelo Maseko, found space behind the Pyramids defence. One-on-one with the keeper, Maseko’s strike was heroically blocked by Ahmed El Shenawy — a pivotal moment that shifted the momentum irreversibly.

Pyramids FC Strike With Precision

Despite Sundowns dominating the opening exchanges, it was the Pyramids who opened the scoring in the 24th minute. Fiston Mayele capitalised on a defensive error, hammering home a sensational strike that flew past Ronwen Williams into the top corner. That goal meant Sundowns needed to score twice due to the away goals rule — a mountain they ultimately failed to climb.

The hosts doubled their lead early in the second half. A beautifully floated free-kick from Moroccan defender Mohamed Chibi was met by Ahmed Samy, who powered a header past Williams to all but seal the tie. Though VAR briefly halted celebrations for an offside check, the goal stood, sending the Cairo crowd into raptures.

Jurčić’s Tactical Masterclass

Pyramids’ Croatian coach Krunoslav Jurčić deserves immense credit for masterminding the club’s meteoric rise in African football. His tactical discipline, particularly in the second leg, saw his side absorb Sundowns’ pressure before launching efficient counter-attacks.

Led by captain Walid El Karti, who had scored a vital late equaliser in the first leg, and supported by the ever-dangerous Ramadan Sobhi, Pyramids were compact and clinical. The midfield duo of Mohanad Lasheen and Chibi disrupted Sundowns’ rhythm, while Mayele’s presence upfront constantly kept the South African defence alert.

The Road to Glory

The Egyptian side’s route to the final was anything but easy. After finishing second in their group behind Esperance de Tunis, they edged past MC Alger in a nervy 1-0 aggregate win in the quarter-finals. Their real statement came in the semi-final where they edged Orlando Pirates 3-2 over two legs, proving they could outclass southern African competition.

In contrast, Sundowns topped the PSL once again with a comfortable margin and had eliminated continental giants Esperance and Al Ahly en route to the final. But their old Achilles’ heel — failing to convert chances when it matters most — haunted them once again on Africa’s grandest stage.

A Night Cairo Will Never Forget

As the final whistle blew at the 30 June Air Defence Stadium, Pyramids’ players collapsed in joy while their fans erupted into celebration. The club’s meteoric rise, funded by ambitious investment and driven by hungry talent, has now delivered Egypt a new continental giant.

For Mamelodi Sundowns, it’s another painful reminder that domestic dominance does not always translate to continental success. The Tshwane side will return home heartbroken but proud, having taken the game to the wire.

For Pyramids FC, however, it is the start of a new dynasty — one that will have all of Africa watching.

Also read: Pyramids vs Mamelodi Sundowns: CAF Champions League Glory on the Line in Cairo