Pyramids FC's Croatian coach Krunoslav Jurcic
Speaking at the pre-match press conference at Cairo’s 30 June Stadium on Friday, the Croatian tactician stressed that maintaining their status as the continent’s leading club would be even harder than achieving it.
“Pyramids FC have succeeded in reaching the top, and we are currently the best team in Africa. Everyone knows that getting to the top is difficult, but staying there is much more difficult,” Jurčić said.
“That is why we face a tough task to remain at the summit this season. Our goal is always to win every match and compete for every trophy.”
The Sky Blues begin their Group A campaign fresh from a historic 2024-2025 season, having secured the CAF Champions League, CAF Super Cup, in addition to lifting the FIFA African-Asian-Pacific Cup title, achievements Jurčić believes give his players the confidence to keep dominating.
“I have huge confidence in this group of players. This is the same team that won everything last season and at the start of this campaign. We play every game to win, and our motivation is always renewed to keep winning trophies and stay at the peak of African football,” he added.
Pyramids FC will be without several key players for the visit of Rivers United, as Ramadan Sobhi, Osama Galal, and Mostafa Fathi are all sidelined with injury. Furthermore, Morocco full-back Mohamed Chibi and DR Congo striker Fiston Mayele will only train once on Friday evening after attending Wednesday’s CAF Awards ceremony in Marrakech.
Despite the absences, Jurčić vowed his side would field a strong lineup and go all out for victory.
Jurčić also clarified the club’s position regarding midfielder Walid El Karti, who was called up by Morocco’s home-based team national team for the upcoming Arab Cup.
“Pyramids FC’ stance is clear: the club does not release players for local or secondary national teams. We only agree to call-ups for the senior national team and during official FIFA international windows,” he stated.
“Pyramids are African champions, and our players deserve to play only for the biggest national teams.”
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