South Africa Sundowns Stun Al Ahly with Stoppage-Time Own Goal to Reach CAF Champions League Final

 Sundowns Stun Al Ahly with Stoppage-Time Own Goal to Reach CAF Champions League Final

Mamelodi Sundowns pulled off a stunning upset against Al Ahly in the CAF Champions League semi-final, securing a 1-1 draw in the second leg on April 25, 2025, at Cairo International Stadium. With the first leg ending 0-0, Sundowns advanced on the away-goals rule, booking their spot in their third Champions League final and first since 2016. Al Ahly struck first through Taher Mohamed’s 23rd-minute screamer, but Sundowns leveled in stoppage time when Yasser Ibrahim turned Iqraam Rayners’ shot into his own net, ending Al Ahly’s bid for a sixth straight final and a 15th title. Sundowns’ defensive resilience, conceding just three goals in eight Champions League matches this season, and their strong record against Egyptian teams were key. They now face Pyramids FC, who defeated Orlando Pirates in the other semi-final, in a historic showdown. Pyramids, in their maiden Champions League final, earned their place with a late win over Pirates. The final’s first leg is set for May 24, 2025, in Pretoria, with the return leg in Cairo on June 1, 2025. Sundowns, the 2016 champions, aim for their second title, while Pyramids chase their first. This all-South African-Egyptian final promises high stakes, with Sundowns’ experience and depth pitted against Pyramids’ ambition. Fans across the continent are buzzing for what could be a defining moment in African football.

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