Pyramids FC star Ramadan Sobhi celebrates with his teammate Mostafa Fathi after scoring the equalizer for his side during the 3-2 win over Orlando Pirates of South Africa in the second leg of the CAF Champions League semifinal on Friday 25 April 2025. Photo: Pyramids FC's official X account
Congolese striker Fiston Mayele was the hero, scoring twice in first-half stoppage time and netting the winner in the 86th minute. Ramadan Sobhi was also on target as the hosts came from behind to complete a dramatic comeback.
The visitors had taken the lead twice through goals from Relebohile Mofokeng in the 41st minute and Mohau Nkota in the 51st, but were unable to hold on, falling short of their first Champions League final appearance since 2013.
The rising Egyptian powerhouse entered the match determined to rewrite history and achieve their first-ever final qualification, relying on their home advantage after a 0-0 draw in the first leg last Saturday.
Both teams exchanged attacking attempts, but the Buccaneers appeared more dangerous with their rapid counterattacks.
Pyramids FC almost opened the scoring early in the first half when talented winger Mostafa Fathi connected with defender Mohamed Chibi’s cross but sent his close-range effort high over the bar.
The visitors responded in the 10th minute when striker Evidence Makgopa connected with Deon Hotto’s pass, forcing goalkeeper Ahmed El-Shennawy to make a brilliant save in the bottom left corner.
Despite both teams trying to penetrate each other's defenses, clear-cut scoring opportunities were scarce. Mofokeng managed to break the deadlock for the visitors in the 41st minute, exploiting a defensive lapse.
Following a free kick executed by Nkota, Pyramids FC failed to clear the ball effectively, allowing Thapelo Xoke to head the ball into the penalty area for Mofokeng, who struck it with his left foot into the corner of the goal.
The home team pushed forward in an attempt to level the score, and they succeeded just before halftime.
In the first minute of injury time, Fiston Mayele connected with Mostafa Fathi’s cross, shooting with his right foot from close range into the bottom left corner and ending the first half in a draw.
Pyramids FC started the second half with renewed energy, eager to claim victory.
Four minutes after the break, Moroccan defender Chibi unleashed a powerful strike from over 35 yards, forcing goalkeeper Sipho Chaine to make a brilliant save, deflecting the ball for a corner kick.
In a surprising turn, the Buccaneers doubled their lead in the 52nd minute, with midfielder Mohau Nkota capitalizing on a quick break to strike into the bottom left corner with his left foot.
Late comeback
Two minutes later, Pyramids FC coach Krunoslav Jurcic made tactical changes, introducing Ramadan Sobhi and Sodiq Awujoola, which proved to be a turning point.
Just a minute later, Sobhi connected with Chibi’s long pass, leveling the score with a powerful header.
The Sky Blues pushed forward, seeking to secure a victory, but their attempts were thwarted by Orlando’s solid defense until Mayele delivered a decisive blow.
Following a corner kick, Awujoola’s header was saved by the goalkeeper, but Mayele capitalized on the rebound, scoring from close range and raising his goal tally in the competition to eight.
As the visitors abandoned their defensive approach in search of an equalizer, Pyramids FC successfully defended against their attempts.
The Cairo-based side will now face Mamelodi Sundowns, who secured a late draw against Ahly in the other semifinal to qualify based on the away goal rule, in two highly anticipated matches scheduled for 24 May and 1 June.
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