Pyramids vs Mamelodi Sundowns: CAF Champions League Glory on the Line in Cairo

The stage is set for a thrilling finale in Cairo as Egypt’s Pyramids FC host Mamelodi Sundowns in the second leg of the 2024–25 CAF Champions League final on Sunday, 1 June. The showdown kicks off at 19:00 CAT at the 30 June Stadium, with continental glory and football history on the line.

A Balanced First Leg Leaves It All to Play For

The first leg in Pretoria ended in a tense 1-1 draw at Loftus Versfeld. Lucas Ribeiro Costa gave the home side the lead early in the second half, only for Walid El Karti to level deep into added time. That late blow has handed Pyramids a slight edge heading into the decisive encounter.

With away goals in play, a goalless draw will crown Pyramids champions, while a win or any score draw of 2-2 or higher will see Sundowns clinch their second CAF Champions League title. A 1-1 result would push the final into a penalty shootout.

History and Rivalry Build the Narrative

This will be the 61st final in the competition’s history, and the 29th since its rebranding as the CAF Champions League. It’s the fourth time Pyramids and Sundowns face off, following last season’s group stage, where Sundowns earned a win and a draw.

Egyptian clubs have generally had the upper hand in finals against South African opposition, winning three of the previous four. Notably, Sundowns remain the only South African team to have beaten Egyptian opponents in a final – that came in 2016 against Zamalek. This match could see Pyramids become Egypt’s fourth different champion, a record in African football.

Pyramids’ Fortress and Rising Ambitions

Despite playing most of their recent fixtures on the road, Pyramids have turned the 30 June Stadium into a stronghold. They are unbeaten in their last 28 home matches in all competitions and have scored in 22 of 23 home games this season. Their Champions League home form has been particularly dominant: seven wins from seven, with 26 goals scored.

Fiston Mayele and Ibrahim Adel lead the scoring charts for Pyramids with eight and six goals respectively, while Ramadan Sobhi has made key contributions, including five assists. Playmaker Askary Chibi has also created more chances than any teammate in the tournament.

Pyramids are aiming not only for a maiden title but also to justify the substantial investment made since the club’s 2018 rebranding. Owner Salem Al Shamsi has publicly stated that Pyramids have eclipsed Zamalek as Egypt’s second-biggest team – a claim they can back up with silverware on Sunday.

Sundowns Face Egyptian Test Once Again

For Mamelodi Sundowns, this final marks their third appearance at this stage, following heartbreak in 2001 and triumph in 2016. Historically, they have struggled in away legs of finals, failing to score and conceding five in their previous two.

Still, there are reasons for optimism. The Tshwane-based giants are unbeaten in their last 10 matches against Egyptian clubs and haven’t lost in their last four visits to Egypt. Coach Miguel Cardoso, who also reached last season’s final with Esperance, is eager to finally lift the trophy.

Sundowns arrive in Cairo on a nine-match unbeaten streak. Lucas Ribeiro Costa remains a key figure, while Teboho Mokoena and Grant Kekana have been crucial in midfield and defence respectively. However, the Brazilians will need a goal to avoid defeat, and history suggests that will be no easy feat.

Team Comparison: Pyramids FC vs Mamelodi Sundowns

Pyramids vs Mamelodi Sundowns: What’s at Stake?

For Pyramids, a first title would etch their name in African football folklore and validate years of heavy financial backing. For Sundowns, it’s a shot at redemption and the chance to reaffirm their status as one of the continent’s elite.

The encounter promises high drama, tactical intensity, and the possibility of another historic CAF Champions League finale. Whether it ends in regular time, extra time or penalties, this is one not to be missed.

Also read: CAF Champions League Final Shock: Mamelodi Sundowns Suffer Late Setback at Loftus