The first leg ended goalless. Both sides will now fight for a place in the CAF Champions League final.
The return leg takes place this Friday. The 30 June Stadium in Cairo will host what promises to be a fierce battle between Pirates and Pyramids.
High Stakes in Cairo
This CAF Champions League semi-final is finely balanced. Pyramids FC (1.64) and Orlando Pirates (5.60) played to a 0-0 draw in Johannesburg. Now, only one of them will advance.
The away goals rule still applies in this competition. That gives Pirates a slight edge, having kept a clean sheet at home. However, the Buccaneers will need to score in Cairo to fully capitalise on that advantage.
The stakes are incredibly high. The winner faces either Al Ahly or Mamelodi Sundowns in the final. Both are former champions, which adds even more pressure to this clash.
Orlando Pirates Face Familiar Territory
Orlando Pirates know this challenge all too well. The last time they reached the CAF Champions League final in 2013, they also travelled to Cairo for the second leg. On that occasion, they were held to a 1-1 draw at home before losing 2-0 away to Al Ahly.
This time around, they will hope for a different outcome. Pirates have developed under coach José Riveiro. His tactical discipline and structure have helped the Buccaneers return to the top level of African soccer.
However, Pirates are up against a side eager to write their own history. Pyramids are chasing their first-ever Champions League final. They have invested heavily in their squad and shown great ambition.
First Leg: Pirates’ Reflections and Tactical Insights
The first leg was tightly contested. Both teams had just one shot on target. However, Pyramids did have two goals disallowed by VAR, from Fiston Mayele and Sodiq Awujoola.
Had either stood, the dynamic of the tie would be completely different. Yet, Pirates’ defensive resilience shone through. They remained organised and focused, which will be vital in Cairo.
Pyramids, meanwhile, showed flashes of creativity. Their midfield trio of Walid El Karti, Blati Touré and Mohanad Lasheen will be crucial in breaking down the Pirates’ lines. Mostafa Fathi and Karim Hafez are also capable of creating chances from wide areas.
Injuries and Pirates Squad Updates
Pirates continue to manage a growing injury list. Thabiso Monyane, Zakhele Lepasa, Olisa Ndah, Thabiso Sesane and Thabiso Lebitso have been unavailable as of late. Monnapule Saleng has also yet to return, despite recent reports of progress after a contract issue.
This limits José Riveiro’s options in defence and attack. Nevertheless, players like Relebohile Mofokeng and Tshegofatso Mabasa continue to deliver.
Defensive Form Could Be the Decider
Defence has defined both teams’ Champions League campaigns. Pirates have kept five clean sheets in a row in all competitions. They are yet to concede in the knockout stages.
Similarly, Mamelodi Sundowns—the other South African semi-finalists—have kept clean sheets throughout. This defensive trend could carry Pirates all the way if they remain disciplined.
However, away goals could still decide this match. Pirates must be more clinical than they were in Johannesburg. A score draw would send them through, but they cannot rely on another 0-0.
Psychological and Historical Factors
Orlando Pirates are no strangers to the pressures of Cairo. The ghosts of 2013 may loom, but they also serve as motivation. Many in the squad were not even professionals back then. This is a chance to make their mark.
For Pyramids, the match represents more than just a semi-final. It is a test of their legitimacy as a continental powerhouse. Backed by wealthy ownership and boasting a star-studded squad, they need results to match their ambition.
What to Expect
Expect a cagey start, much like the first leg. Both sides know the margins are razor-thin. However, the game will open up if one team scores early.
Transitions will be key. Pirates have pace out wide and can punish Pyramids on the counter. Pyramids, meanwhile, will look to dominate possession and force the Buccaneers to defend deep.
The online sports betting odds are stacked against Pirates, but the Buccaneers will be quietly confident of an upset.
