Pyramids FC and Orlando Pirates set for Cairo showdown in CAF Champions League

Kick-off is at 20h00, with a place in the final against either Al Ahly or Mamelodi Sundowns at stake.

Pyramids have struggled to find their rhythm, going four matches without a win across all competitions. Their 0-0 draw in the first leg against Pirates in Soweto on 19 April marked their second stalemate in four games. However, the Egyptian side remain a fortress at home, unbeaten in this season's Champions League with six wins and one draw, including a 3-1 victory over Sagrada Esperança in the quarterfinals.

Orlando Pirates, the 1995 champions, are the only unbeaten team left in the competition, boasting five draws and eight wins. Their first-leg draw extended their unbeaten run to nine matches across all competitions, with back-to-back away victories in the Champions League showcasing their road resilience.

Pyramids are sweating over the fitness of star attacker Ibrahim Adel, who has netted six goals in this season's competition but missed the last four matches due to injury. A late fitness test will determine his availability.

Meanwhile, Pirates are grappling with injuries to defenders Olisa Ndah, Thabiso Sesane, Thabiso Monyane, and Thabiso Lebitso, all likely to miss the clash.

Pyramids head coach Krunoslav Jurcic expressed confidence in his team's ability to turn the tie around. "We created chances in the first leg but didn't convert," Jurcic said. "If we sharpen our finishing and replicate that performance, we have a real chance to reach the final."

Orlando Pirates boss Jose Riveiro anticipates a fiercely contested second leg. "It was a tight game in Soweto, and both teams showed they belong at this level," Riveiro said. "It's wide open, and we're ready to fight for a spot in the final."

Recent posts on X highlight the buzz surrounding the matchup. Pyramids FC's official account shared a training video captioned, "The boys are fired up for the big night in Cairo!  #CAFCL," while Pirates striker Evidence Makgopa posted, "We're coming for it. Cairo, let's go!  #OnceAlways."

Fans on X are split, with some predicting a narrow Pyramids win at home, while others back Pirates' unbeaten streak to carry them through.

The first leg marked the first-ever meeting between Pyramids and Pirates, ending in a tense 0-0 draw. With everything to play for, the aggregate winner, or a potential penalty shootout, will secure a spot in the two-legged final on 24 May and 1 June.

Both teams have shown grit, but Pyramids' home dominance could be the difference if they rediscover their scoring touch. Pirates, however, have the experience and depth to grind out a result, even with injuries. Expect a cagey affair with moments of brilliance to decide this blockbuster tie.