Pyramids FC Clinch Historic CAF Champions League Title, Sundowns Fall Short Amid Tactical Controversy
Pyramids FC Clinch First-Ever CAF Champions League Title
Egypt’s Pyramids FC made history by claiming their maiden CAF Champions League trophy with a 2-1 victory over South Africa’s Mamelodi Sundowns at Cairo’s 30 June Stadium on Sunday, June 1, 2025. The win secured a 3-2 aggregate result for Pyramids, following a 1-1 draw in the first leg held in Pretoria.
Match Summary
The Egyptian side seized the initiative early, with Fiston Mayele exploiting a defensive lapse to break the deadlock in the 23rd minute. Ahmed Samy extended the lead in the 56th minute with a well-timed header from a set piece. Sundowns hit back through Iqraam Rayners, who scored in the 72nd minute, but Pyramids held on to seal a historic triumph.
Criticism Directed at Coach Cardoso
Sundowns coach Miguel Cardoso faced backlash from fans for his controversial decision to bench key midfielder Themba Zwane. Although Zwane had recently returned from injury and wasn’t considered fit to play the entire match, many supporters believed his inclusion could have influenced the outcome. The decision sparked widespread criticism, with one frustrated fan claiming in a video that Cardoso’s tactics cost the team a shot at their second continental crown.
What’s Next
This defeat is a setback for Mamelodi Sundowns, who were chasing their second CAF Champions League title after their 2016 triumph. Their attention now shifts to the Club World Cup in the United States, where they will face elite international opponents.
Meanwhile, the win marks a major milestone for Pyramids FC, who were participating in just their second Champions League campaign. Following last season’s Egyptian Cup success, this victory further cements the club’s growing stature. Pyramids also become the fourth Egyptian club to win the tournament, joining the ranks of Al Ahly, Zamalek, and Ismaily.
As the final chapter of this edition of the competition closes, both clubs will reflect on their journeys and look ahead to new challenges on the African and global stage.