Cairo, Egypt – Pyramids FC have etched their name into African football history, winning their maiden CAF Champions League title with a thrilling 2-1 victory over South Africa’s Mamelodi Sundowns in the second leg of the final, securing a 3-2 aggregate win.
The match, played at a packed 30 June Air Defence Stadium in Cairo, marked a monumental moment for Egyptian football, as Pyramids became only the fourth club from Egypt after Al Ahly, Zamalek, and Ismaily to lift Africa’s most coveted club trophy. No other country has had as many different clubs win the competition.
First Half Brilliance from Mayele
Roared on by an electric home crowd, Pyramids FC started brightly and took the lead in the 23rd minute through their red-hot striker Fiston Mayele, who latched onto a clever pass from the right and smashed a low shot into the far corner. It was Mayele’s ninth goal in the tournament, underlining his status as one of the breakout stars of this year’s edition.
Ahmed Samy Doubles the Lead
The Egyptian side extended their lead early in the second half, as Ahmed Samy rose highest in the 56th minute to nod home a pinpoint cross from Mohamed Chibi, igniting scenes of jubilation in the Cairo stands. With a 2-0 lead on the night and 3-1 on aggregate, Pyramids looked in control.
Sundowns Fight Back, But Fall Short
Despite the uphill task, Mamelodi Sundowns showed their pedigree and character. Their efforts were rewarded in the 75th minute when Iqraam Rayners tucked away a close-range finish after a sustained spell of pressure.
With the score at 2-1 (3-2 on aggregate), Rhulani Mokwena’s men pushed forward desperately in search of a second goal. Peter Shalulile and Lebo Mothiba both had late efforts blocked, while a nervy 10 minutes of stoppage time saw end-to-end action.
However, Pyramids’ backline, marshaled by veteran goalkeeper Ahmed El Shenawy, stood firm to seal a famous victory.
AMONG THE GREATS!
First-time #TotalEnergiesCAFCL champions. History makers. Their name now shines in gold. 𝐏𝐲𝐫𝐚𝐦𝐢𝐝𝐬 𝐅𝐂! 🏆 pic.twitter.com/oMBxIC9V4t
— TotalEnergies CAFCL & CAFCC 🏆 (@CAFCLCC) June 1, 2025Historic Win Caps Club’s Meteoric Rise
Founded just over a decade ago, Pyramids FC’s journey from new club to continental champions is one of African football’s modern fairy tales. Their CAF Champions League triumph is not only a first for the club but also continues Egypt’s recent dominance in the competition, following Al Ahly’s consecutive wins in 2023 and 2024.
More Final Heartbreak for Sundowns
For Mamelodi Sundowns, it was another bitter night in the Champions League final. Seeking a second title to add to their 2016 crown, the South African giants were aiming to become the first team since Al Ahly in 2012 to win the final without a first-leg advantage. Instead, they suffered their second final defeat, the first coming in 2001 against Al Ahly.
Despite their exit, Sundowns remain a dominant force in African football and will regroup ahead of the next campaign with valuable lessons from this intense final.
What’s Next?
For Pyramids FC, the victory unlocks participation in the FIFA Club World Cup, opening the door to global competition. More importantly, it solidifies their position as a powerhouse in Egyptian and African football.
With this landmark triumph, Pyramids FC have gone from domestic challengers to continental champions and their rise might just be getting started.
o5jued