Cairo, Egypt – Egyptian giants Pyramids held their nerve to secure their first-ever CAF Champions League title, edging Mamelodi Sundowns 3-2 on aggregate following a 2-1 victory in Sunday’s thrilling return leg in Cairo.
The first leg in Pretoria ended 1-1, leaving the onus on Pyramids to take control on home soil. They started the game on the front foot, and their early dominance paid dividends in the 23rd minute when Congolese forward Fiston Mayele produced a clever finish to give the Egyptians the lead.
Pyramids’ defense held strong throughout the first half, frustrating Sundowns’ attempts to penetrate their backline. The hosts extended their advantage before the hour mark when 33-year-old Ahmed Samy powered a close-range header past Ronwen Williams, putting Pyramids firmly in control of the tie.
Although Sundowns’ Rayners Iqraam scored to set up a tense finish, the Egyptian side managed to maintain composure and held on to secure a historic triumph.
This victory marks Pyramids’ first Champions League crown and the fourth time an Egyptian club has lifted the prestigious continental trophy.
