Brave Sundowns fall short in Cairo as Pyramids claim Champions League glory

Despite a valiant late fightback from Masandawana, Pyramids hung on to claim a 3-2 aggregate result and become first-time champions of Africa.

Sundowns made just one change from the first leg, bringing Jayden Adams back into the starting lineup in place of Arthur Sales, while Pyramids made a solitary substitution, with Ramadan Sobhi taking his place in the team. 

Despite Sundowns controlling possession early on, it was Pyramids who had the first significant chance. Fiston Mayele sent a side-footed effort against the side netting after receiving a floated cross.

The breakthrough came midway through the first half. Mayele capitalized on a defensive lapse by Grant Kekana, who lost possession inside the box. Mayele was quick to respond, striking a powerful first-time shot past Sundowns goalkeeper Ronwen Williams to give Pyramids the lead.

After taking control of the match, Pyramids almost extended their advantage through Sobhi, whose header from a corner was expertly saved by Williams to keep Sundowns in the contest. 

In first-half stoppage time, Sundowns had a golden chance to equalize when Lucas Ribeiro threaded a perfect pass through to Tashreeq Matthews. However, Matthews failed to beat Pyramids goalkeeper Ahmed El Shenawy, whose save proved crucial.

Sundowns emerged from the break determined to launch one last push for glory. They pressed hard and created chances, but Egypt international El Shenawy was once again a towering figure between the sticks, pulling off multiple acrobatic saves.

In the 55th minute, Pyramids doubled their lead through Ahmed Samy, who headed in a superb free kick from Mohamed Chibi. After a tense VAR review for offside, the goal was upheld, putting the hosts 2-0 ahead and 3-1 on aggregate.

Sundowns refused to give up, however, and were able to respond in the 75th minute when Iqraam Rayners struck a powerful volley from a loose ball in the box to make it 2-1. Another VAR review confirmed the goal, giving the South African side hope with 15 minutes to play.

The visitors launched wave after wave of attack in the closing stages, throwing everything at the Pyramids defence, but El Shenawy produced a series of miraculous saves to deny them again and again.

In stoppage time, Sundowns had one last surge. Ribeiro twisted through defenders inside the box, but he was crowded out. The referee finally blew for full-time after 100 minutes, confirming Pyramids FCâ™s first CAF Champions League title - and heartbreak for Masandawana.

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