Orlando Pirates’ journey in the 2025 CAF Champions League came to a heartbreaking end on Friday night as Egyptian side Pyramids FC triumphed 3-2 in an enthralling semi-final encounter at the 30 June Stadium in Cairo. The defeat not only ended Pirates’ hopes of an all-South African final, but it also allowed Pyramids to advance to the prestigious final, where they will meet South African giants Mamelodi Sundowns.
The match itself was a roller-coaster of emotions, with both teams giving their all in a contest that saw two dramatic comebacks and several missed opportunities that ultimately decided the fate of the Buccaneers.
A Strong Start but a Fragile Defense
The game began at a frantic pace, as both sides created early chances, setting the tone for an intense battle. Pirates, knowing that an away goal would be crucial, looked promising on the counter-attack, using their speed and agility to trouble Pyramids’ defense. However, Pyramids were quick to respond, testing Pirates’ goalkeeper Sipho Chaine early on.
Pirates were the first to break the deadlock in the 41st minute, thanks to a brilliant piece of skill from 20-year-old Relebohile Mofokeng. A long throw from Tapelo Xoki found Mofokeng at the back post, and the young forward kept his composure, slotting home a calm finish to put Pirates in front.
However, just minutes later, Pyramids FC showed their resilience. In the 45th minute, a scrappy goal by Fiston Mayele, who poked home a low cross from Mostafa Fathi, brought the Egyptians level just before halftime, making the score 1-1 and leaving the second half wide open.
Pirates Regain the Lead, But Defensive Lapses Cost Them
As the second half kicked off, Orlando Pirates again took the lead, with another young star, Mohau Nkota, delivering a stunning long-range shot in the 53rd minute. The 20-year-old forward scored his fourth goal of the competition, putting Pirates back in the driver’s seat. Fans in the stands had every reason to believe that they might see their team reach the final.
However, Pirates’ defense proved to be their undoing. Only five minutes after Nkota’s strike, substitute Ramadan Sobhi found space in the air and headed home a long ball to level the score once again. The defensive lapses became more evident as the match wore on, and Pirates were unable to reset quickly enough after each setback.
The final blow came just minutes later when Mayele, who had been a constant threat throughout the match, completed his brace. Reacting quickest to a loose ball during a corner, Mayele powered home the decisive third goal, leaving Pirates with no time to respond.
Tactical Adjustments Fall Short
Pirates’ head coach Jose Riveiro had made a bold tactical decision, opting for a more defensive 5-4-1 formation to weather the storm against the Egyptian side. While the formation offered some stability, it ultimately wasn’t enough to handle the relentless pressure from Pyramids FC. The defensive structure began to crack under pressure, and key moments where Pirates could have regained control were lost.
The defeat also marks the end of Pirates’ continental campaign, with fans left to reflect on missed chances and moments of fragility that allowed their hopes to slip away. Despite the loss, Pirates showed plenty of promise, with several standout individual performances from young players like Mofokeng and Nkota.
Pyramids FC vs Mamelodi Sundowns – A Historic Final Awaited
With the result in Cairo, Pyramids FC secured their place in the final, where they will face Mamelodi Sundowns. Sundowns had earlier advanced to the final on the away-goals rule after a 1-1 draw with Egyptian giants Al Ahly.
For the South African football community, the final between Sundowns and Pyramids will be a historic showdown, but the dream of an all-South African final involving Orlando Pirates has been dashed. Pirates fans will now look to the future, hoping their team can learn from this defeat and build on the promise shown in this year’s competition.
What’s Next for Orlando Pirates?
While the loss will sting, Orlando Pirates’ progress in the CAF Champions League this season should not be overlooked. The team showed resilience, fighting spirit, and the ability to compete with some of Africa’s best teams. With talented young players coming through the ranks and a coach who understands the intricacies of African football, Pirates can take this defeat as a valuable learning experience and build for future continental glory.
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