Cairo, Egypt – Pyramids FC etched their name into African football history by securing their first-ever African Champions League title with a 3-2 aggregate victory over South Africa’s Mamelodi Sundowns. The Egyptian club triumphed 2-1 in the second leg at Cairo’s 30 June Stadium, sealing a $4 million prize and becoming the 13th unique winner of the modern Champions League era since 1997.
A Historic Night in Cairo
After a 1-1 draw in the first leg in South Africa, Pyramids took control early in the return fixture. Tournament top-scorer Fiston Mayele struck in the 23rd minute, capitalizing on a defensive error by Sundowns’ Grant Kekana to beat goalkeeper Ronwen Williams from close range. The DR Congo international’s ninth goal of the campaign gave Pyramids the lead in the tie.
In the 56th minute, Ahmed Samy doubled the advantage with a diving header from a Mohamed Chibi free-kick, confirmed after a lengthy VAR review for offside. Despite a late volley from Sundowns’ Iqraam Rayners in the 75th minute, Pyramids goalkeeper Ahmed El Shenawy stood firm, making crucial saves, including a point-blank stop against Tashreeq Matthews and a powerful free-kick from Teboho Mokoena.
The hosts endured 10 minutes of added time to secure the historic win, sparking celebrations at the 30,000-capacity stadium despite a relatively subdued crowd.
Pyramids’ Rise to Glory
Founded in 2008 as Al Assiouty, Pyramids transformed into a footballing powerhouse after Saudi and Emirati investments in 2018, relocating to Cairo and attracting top talent. Their Champions League triumph continues Egypt’s dominance in the competition, with Egyptian clubs winning seven of the last nine editions, led by Al Ahly’s six titles.
However, Pyramids remain overshadowed by Cairo giants Al Ahly and Zamalek domestically. Coach Krunoslav Jurcic had called for greater fan support before the match, but the atmosphere was quieter than expected. The club now has a chance to claim a domestic and continental double when they face Zamalek in the Egyptian Cup final on Thursday, despite losing the league title to Al Ahly earlier this week.
Sundowns’ Fight Falls Short
Mamelodi Sundowns, the 2016 champions and winners of eight consecutive South African league titles, struggled to find their rhythm. Early pressure fizzled due to misplaced passes and a lack of attacking fluency. Despite Rayners’ late goal, the visitors couldn’t find the equalizer needed to claim the title on away goals.
Sundowns now turn their focus to the expanded FIFA Club World Cup in the United States, where they’ll face Fluminense, Borussia Dortmund, and Ulsan in Group F, starting with Ulsan on June 17. Pyramids’ victory marks a new chapter for the club and underscores the growing financial influence in African football. With their first continental title secured, Pyramids are poised to challenge Egypt’s traditional giants and make further waves on the global stage.
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