Pyramids FC Shocks Mamelodi Sundowns with 2-1 Victory in Cairo, Securing Historic First CAF Champions League Title

 

Pyramids Football Club, an emerging powerhouse in Egyptian football, has sent shockwaves through South Africa by defeating Mamelodi Sundowns 2-1 in Cairo on June 1, 2025, clinching their first-ever CAF Champions League title. The second leg of the final, following a tightly contested 1-1 draw in the first leg in Pretoria, saw Pyramids secure a commanding 3-1 aggregate victory with clinical goals from Fiston Mayele and Ahmed Samy. Despite a spirited response from Sundowns, with Iqraam Rayners scoring a late goal to reduce the deficit, the South African champions could not muster the equalizer needed to extend the match or keep their hopes of retaining the prestigious title alive.

The triumph represents a monumental achievement for Pyramids FC, a club established in 2008 and transformed in recent years through significant Gulf investment, marking their ascent as a formidable force in African football. This victory further cements Egypt’s dominance in the continent’s club competitions, following in the footsteps of giants like Al Ahly and Zamalek. For Mamelodi Sundowns, the defeat was a bitter blow, despite their relentless attacking efforts in the closing stages of the match, which saw them press aggressively but fall short of a second goal. The outcome has sparked widespread discussion on platforms like X, with South African fans expressing disappointment while acknowledging Pyramids’ tactical superiority.

As Sundowns regroup, their focus now shifts to the upcoming FIFA Club World Cup in the United States, where they will face South Korea’s Ulsan Hyundai in their Group F opener on June 17, 2025. The loss in Cairo has intensified scrutiny on Sundowns’ strategy and resilience, while Pyramids’ historic win is being celebrated as a landmark moment for the club and Egyptian football, reinforcing their growing influence on the continental stage.