Egyptian side Pyramids FC made history on Saturday, lifting their first-ever CAF Champions League trophy with a thrilling 2-1 victory over Mamelodi Sundowns in Cairo.
Playing at the 30 June Stadium, Pyramids secured a 3-2 aggregate win after a dramatic second-leg performance in front of their home crowd. The match marked a milestone for the club, which only began its journey in 2008 and was rebranded after major investment in 2018.
Match Highlights
With the first leg having ended 1-1 in South Africa, Pyramids took charge early in the return leg. Tournament top scorer Fiston Mayele fired them into the lead in the 23rd minute, capitalizing on a defensive error to score his ninth goal of the tournament.
The hosts doubled their advantage in the 56th minute through Ahmed Samy, whose powerful diving header was confirmed after a lengthy VAR review.
Sundowns fought back with a goal from Iqraam Rayners in the 75th minute, but despite a late flurry of attacks and 10 minutes of added time, the South African champions could not find the equalizer.
Pyramids held firm to seal a 2-1 win on the night and claim the $4 million prize alongside continental glory.
Historic Moment for Egyptian Football
This victory makes Pyramids the 13th different club to win Africa’s top club competition since the current Champions League format was introduced in 1997. Egyptian clubs continue to dominate the tournament, now boasting seven titles in the past nine seasons, largely thanks to Al Ahly’s dynasty.
While Pyramids still play in the shadow of giants Al Ahly and Zamalek, their achievement sends a strong message about their growing ambition and investment power.
Sundowns Fall Short
Mamelodi Sundowns, champions in 2016 and winners of eight straight South African league titles, struggled to break through a solid Pyramids defense. Their best chance came in first-half stoppage time, when Tashreeq Matthews was denied by a superb save from Ahmed El Shenawy.
Though Rayners’ goal reignited hope, Sundowns couldn’t capitalize, and the Cairo crowd erupted as the final whistle confirmed a new name on the African trophy.
Looking Ahead
While Pyramids now look to complete a domestic double in the Egyptian Cup final against Zamalek, Sundowns must shift focus to the expanded FIFA Club World Cup, where they’ll face Fluminense, Borussia Dortmund, and Ulsan Hyundai in Group F.
