The Cairo-based side hold a slight advantage after a goalless draw in Johannesburg last week and now need only a home win to secure a historic place in Africa’s premier club competition final.
Star forward Ibrahim Adel, recovering from a calf injury, returned to training this week and will undergo a late fitness test to determine his availability off the bench.
Pyramids are expected to start Ahmed El Shenawy in goal, with a back four of Mohamed Hamdi, Ahmed Sami, Mahmoud Marei, and Mohamed El Shibi. Mohanad Lasheen, Blati Touré, and Walid El Karti will anchor the midfield, supporting an attacking trio of Fiston Mayele, Ramadan Sobhi, and Mostafa Fathi.
The club, which fell short in 2020 CAF Confederation Cup final, now aim to become only the fifth Egyptian team to reach the Champions League final, joining Ahly, Zamalek, Ismaily, and Ghazl El Mahalla.
Orlando Pirates, last in the final in 2013, are looking to turn things around in Cairo. South African media reported that coach José Riveiro is set to introduce midfielder Kabelo Dlamini and striker Evidence Makgopa to increase the side’s creativity and firepower.
If Pyramids and Ahly both advance, it would set up the first all-Egyptian Champions League final since Ahly defeated Zamalek in 2020.
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