The stage is set to crown a new king of African football following a fierce battle in the first leg of the CAF Champions League final that ended 1-1 at a sold-out Loftus Versfeld Stadium. More fireworks are expected in this decider to be held at Cairo’s 30 June Stadium.

Pyramids are eyeing their first-ever continental title while Mamelodi Sundowns are eager to earn their second star after being crowned champions of this prestigious showpiece back in 2016. Victory for the Brazilians will see them make history by being the first South African team to win the CAF Champions League twice.

To win (90 min)

Pyramids 11/10
Draw 21/10
Mamelodi Sundowns 5/2

Pyramids

It looked like the first leg was going to end in defeat for the Egyptian side as Sundowns took the lead within ten minutes of the start in the second half, but Walid El Karti scored the equaliser in the dying minutes of the game to end the match 1-1.

The home side now head to this match with a slight advantage on their side after scoring a crucial away goal during the first leg, meaning if this fixture ends in a goalless draw, they will put their name down in the history books and walk away with the trophy as champions of the 2024/25 CAF Champions League.

The Krunoslav Jurcic-led team showed character despite playing in a hostile environment, as the venue was dominated by the Yellow Nation fans who came out in their numbers to rally behind Masandawana.

They were outplayed in terms of ball possession in the first half, but tried to catch the Sundowns on the counterattack, forcing Ronwen Williams into making two saves. Fiston Mayele came closest for Pyramids, sliding an effort just wide and later blazing another chance over from close range after latching on to a dangerous low cross.

Pyramids goalkeeper and captain Mohamed El Shenawy was called into action early, pulling off a spectacular save to deny Iqraam Rayners’ curling effort in the 9th minute.

Left winger Ibrahim Adel kept Khuliso Mudau on his toes as most of the team’s attacks were coming from his side. Mudau, who is a national team regular, showed class, winning 7 out of 8 ground duels and making crucial clearances.

Jurcic’s defence should work to avoid absorbing pressure from the Sundowns’ prolific attack, as it will put them in a difficult position to contain them as the match progresses. A clear game plan is required, aiming to prevent Downs from having much possession in their half.

Mamelodi Sundowns

Miguel Cardoso fielded an attack-minded starting lineup in the first leg, featuring Tashreeq Matthews, Arthur Sales, Lucas Ribeiro, and Iqraam Rayners in an effort to put Pyramids under pressure from the first whistle.

However, the move didn’t work out as he was exposed in the middle with Tebogo Mokoena and Marcello Allende losing the midfield battle. This forced Cardoso to make an early substitution, bringing Jayden Adams in to replace Matthews in the 37th minute.

Another surprise was to see that Themba Zwane and Peter Shalulile, were not in the starting eleven. Shalulile was introduced in the second half in a double change with Neo Maema. Zwane’s exclusion was met with criticism, and Cardoso’s tactics were questioned on the day. However, the coach defended his decision, citing that tactical balance took precedence and that he believed the team on the field was good enough to get the job done.

Zwane played a crucial part in Sundowns’ route to the final as his introduction in the second half against Al Ahly in the semifinal second leg, while the team was trailing 1-0, was instrumental in getting the equaliser and booking a spot in the final via the away goal rule.

The reigning Betway Premiership champions are more experienced in high-stakes matches, having been regulars in continental competitions. Furthermore, this is Cardoso’s second successive final, having reached it last year with Tunisian side Esperance.

Having seen how Pyramids frustrated Orlando Pirates in their home leg of the semi-finals, the Brazilians are expected to apply different tactics to counter their approach, especially during the late stages of the game. Fiston Mayele scored during additional time in the first half, and his second strike came late in the second half in the 84th minute.

Player of the season candidate, Lucas Ribeiro, who netted the equaliser, is expected to be the difference-maker in this match, backed by the experience of Tebogo Mokoena and captain Ronwen Williams in the net.

Head-to-head stats

24/05/2025: Mamelodi Sundowns 1-1 Pyramids
19/12/2023: Pyramids 0-1 Mamelodi Sundowns
10/12/2023: Mamelodi Sundowns 0–0 Pyramids

Prediction:

It is safe to say that there is no obvious winner as we head to this intense clash. There is a lot at stake, and both sides will aim to make minimal mistakes. Having failed to take advantage of their home ground advantage, Sundowns’ back will be against the wall as Pyramids is a tough nut to crack at home. Back Pyramids to win.

Written by @siphesihlesoni