Pyramids FC clinch first CAF Champions League title with victory over Mamelodi Sundowns

Pyramids FC have won the CAF Champions League for the first time. They defeated South Africa’s Mamelodi Sundowns 2-1 in Cairo. This victory secured a 3-2 aggregate win after a 1-1 draw in the first leg.

The club was promoted to the Egyptian Premier League in 2014. Their rise has been remarkable, now joining the elite list of African champions. Pyramids are the fourth Egyptian club to win this title, alongside Al Ahly, Zamalek, and Ismaily. This cements Egypt's status as the most successful nation in this competition.

Pyramids scored first in the 23rd minute. Congolese forward Fiston Mayele found the net early on. This was Mayele’s ninth goal of the tournament, highlighting his importance.

In the 56th minute, defender Ahmed Samy scored with a header from a cross by Mohamed Chibi. This goal gave Pyramids a two-goal lead and control of the match. Chibi played well before being substituted in the 88th minute.

Sundowns responded in the 75th minute with Iqraam Rayners scoring from close range. His goal brought life back into the contest. Sundowns pushed for an equalizer late in the game but faced strong resistance.

Forwards Peter Shalulile and Lebo Mothiba had their attempts blocked during added time. Despite pressure, Pyramids held on to their lead thanks to goalkeeper Ahmed El Shenawy's crucial saves.

This victory marks Pyramids’ first CAF Champions League title and extends Egypt’s dominance on the continent. Al Ahly won consecutive titles in 2023 and 2024 before this match.

For Sundowns, this defeat is their second loss in a Champions League final. They previously lost to Al Ahly in 2001 and hoped to add another title since their last win in 2016.

Pyramids FC's journey has been impressive since their founding just over ten years ago. They have transformed from domestic contenders into continental champions, establishing themselves as a new force in African football.