CAF CL: Mokoena the difference as Sundowns pip Pyramids in Egypt
Egypt’s Pyramids FC suffered a fresh setback in their CAF Champions League campaign, succumbing to a 1-0 defeat against Mamelodi Sundowns of South Africa on Tuesday in Group A. The result leaves their quarter-final hopes hanging by a thread.
Mamelodi Sundowns wasted no time in taking the lead, courtesy of midfielder Teboho Mokoena’s goal in the 17th minute of the match. Despite Pyramids FC’s early efforts to find an equalizer and alleviate the mounting pressure, they struggled to create any chances.
The first notable opportunity arose for Sundowns when midfielder Ribeiro Costa received a cross inside the box, but his poor handling allowed Pyramids FC’s defense to clear the danger. However, Mokoena swiftly capitalized on the loose ball, unleashing a powerful long-range shot to give Sundowns the advantage.
Pyramids FC pushed forward in their quest to level the score. Congolese striker Fiston Mayele came from scoring twice in the 27th and 37th minute but Sundowns keeper Williams came to the rescue with some brilliant saves.
Pyramids FC’s goalkeeper, Ahmed Mayhoub, who deputised for injured Ahmed El Shennawy, also displayed produced an impressive performance denying Sundowns’ forward Zwane’s shot from the left side of the box.
In the second half, Pyramids FC coach Jaime Pacheco introduced winger Mostafa Fathi in an effort to invigorate their attacking line. However, the Egyptian international failed to make the anticipated impact.
Sundowns effectively controlled the game, preventing the home team from creating any significant scoring opportunities during the second half.
With only a minute left in injury time, Pyramids’ Mohamed Hamdi came close to scoring the equalizer, but his shot narrowly missed the post.
Following this result, Pyramids FC find themselves at the bottom of the group with four points, significantly diminishing their chances of advancing to the competition’s quarterfinals. Meanwhile, Sundowns climbed to the top of the group with 7 points, leading second-placed TP Mazembe on goal difference.
