Pyramids crowned kings of Africa in CAF Champions League showdown After Sinking Mamelodi Sundowns
Aubrey Modiba of Mamelodi Sundowns is challenged by Ahmed Atef of Pyramids during the CAF Champions League final, second leg, on Sunday at 30 June Stadium in Cairo. Photo: BackpagePix
PYRAMIDS (2) 2
Mayele 23', Samy 56'
MAMELODI SUNDOWNS (0) 1
Rayners 75'
Pyramids won 3-2 on aggregate
It was a case of 'so close, yet so far' for Mamelodi Sundowns as they missed out on the CAF Champions League crown after losing 3–2 on aggregate to Pyramids in the final.
Sundowns lost 2–1 in the second leg at 30 June Stadium on Sunday night, courtesy of goals from Fiston Mayele and Ahmed Samy, having drawn 1–1 in the first leg at home, Loftus Versfeld.
The Brazilians were their own worst enemies in Cairo, conceding both goals through avoidable errors in each half.
Mayele capitalised on a poor clearance by Grant Kekana in the first half, pouncing inside the box to unleash a low-driven strike past the goalkeeper. The DRC-born striker made no mistake with the opportunity.
Samy ensured the match was all but sealed early in the second half when Mohamed Chibi delivered a delightful set-piece behind the defensive wall, which Samy headed home with precision.
Iqraam Rayners pulled one back with 15 minutes to go, rifling home a deflected loose ball to offer a glimmer of hope for the visitors.
In the end, it was a perfect night for the Pharaohs, who were crowned champions of the continent for the first time in their history.
Sundowns will be hugely disappointed, having come within one match of returning to the summit of African football for the first time since 2016.
A continental crown would have been a fitting reward for Sundowns, who have dominated domestic football over the past eight years, winning eight successive Premiership titles. They have also made significant strides on the continental stage and will represent Africa at the FIFA Club World Cup later this month.
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