The Egyptian side currently sit second in the group, level with Tunisia’s Esperance at seven points each, with the latter leading the group in goal difference.

Pyramids FC come into the game high on confidence after a resilient performance in their previous outing in Africa’s prestigious tournament, staging a stunning comeback to defeat Esperance 2-1 on Sunday, courtesy of goals from winger Mostafa Fathi and a last-gasp strike by forward Ibrahim Adel.

However, Pyramids will be without key players for the upcoming match, with left-back Mohamed Hamdi sidelined due to an injury sustained during the victory over Esperance.

Additionally, defender Mohamed Chibi and midfielders Mohanad Lasheen and Mahmoud Dunga, who missed the previous game, remain unavailable due to various injuries.

Despite their dominant 5-1 win over Sagrada in Cairo earlier in the group stage opener, Krunoslav Jurčić, Pyramids FC’s Croatian coach, has warned against underestimating the Angolan side.

“The match will be extremely difficult, especially since we are facing a strong team playing at home in front of their fans. They also have a good chance of qualifying,” Jurčić said during the pre-match press conference.

The 55-year-old coach stressed the importance of avoiding complacency. “The 5-1 victory over Sagrada in Cairo means nothing for this match. It’s a completely different game. The outcome will significantly impact our group's standing and qualification to the next round. I’ve told the players to forget the Cairo result, approach this match with a different mindset, and understand that only a win is acceptable at this stage. Anything less is unacceptable,” he added.

On the other hand, Sagrada Esperança, currently third in the group with five points, will be eager to avenge their earlier defeat, capitalize on their home advantage, and revive their chances of qualifying for the next stage.

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