Egypt’s Pyramids FC showed resilience as they secured a hard-fought 0-0 draw against Mamelodi Sundowns in the third round of the CAF Champions League group stage on Sunday in Pretoria.
Pyramids FC, playing with ten men after defender Osama Galal received a second yellow card, exhibited determination throughout the game.
Despite their efforts, they currently sit at the bottom of Group A with four points, trailing Mamelodi Sundowns, TP Mazembe, and FC Nouadhibou in terms of goal difference.
The match began with Pyramids FC displaying high motivation and capitalizing on their talented players, aiming to improve their position in the group rankings.
They came close to scoring just two minutes into the game when Ramadan Sobhi’s header from inside the area was saved by Sundowns’ goalkeeper, Ronwen Williams.
Despite playing at home, Mamelodi Sundowns struggled to convert their advantage into goals during the first half, as Pyramids FC’s solid defense limited their scoring opportunities.
After the break, Sundowns came close to taking the lead when striker Peter Shalulile controlled the ball inside the area and narrowly missed the target.
The hosts continued to apply pressure in the second half, with two scoring chances in the 52nd and 60th minutes.
Midfielder Zwane’s header from a wide cross was expertly saved by Pyramids FC goalkeeper Ahmed El-Shennawy, and Shalulile’s follow-up ended in a free kick for Pyramids FC.
In an attempt to secure victory, Sundowns coach Rhulani Mokwena made substitutions, introducing Lesiba William Nku and Abubeker Nassir.
However, their impact on the game was limited. Pyramids FC’s Portuguese coach, Jaime Pacheco, also made changes, bringing on Abdalla El-Said and Mostafa Fathi to refresh the frontline, replacing Walid El Karti and Karim Hafez.
The match saw further drama when Gabonese referee Pierre Atcho disallowed a goal for Sundowns, ruling Shalulile offside with just seven minutes remaining. Pyramids FC was then forced to play injury time with only ten players after Osama Galal received his second yellow card and was sent off.
Both teams made additional efforts to secure victory, but ultimately the game ended in a goalless draw.
Pyramids FC’s resilient performance with ten men showcased their determination to compete at the highest level of African club football.
Ex- CAF Media Expert. An expert on African football with over 15 years experience ,always with an ear to the ground with indepth knowledge of the game. I have worked for top publications including 7 years at www.supersport.com until i founded www.soka25east.com to quench the thirst of football lovers across the continent. I have trained young upcoming journalists who are now a voice in African football.I have covered World Cup,AFCON,CHAN,Champions League,Confederations Cup,Cecafa,Cosafa,Wafu and many other football tournaments across the World. Founder Football Africa Arena(FAA),Founder www.afrisportdigital.com
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