Fresh off their progression to the Nedbank Cup final, Orlando Pirates are set to host Egypt's Pyramids FC at FNB Stadium on Saturday, April 19, 2025, in the first leg of their CAF Champions League semi-final. The match kicks off at 6:00 PM CAT (4:00 PM GMT, 12:00 PM ET), and the Buccaneers are eager to secure passage to yet another major final.
Despite the news that head coach José Riveiro will be departing at the end of the season, the Pirates appear undeterred on the pitch. If anything, this announcement seems to have spurred them on. Even though their squad depth may not rival that of Betway Premiership and CAF Champions League rivals Mamelodi Sundowns, Pirates have managed their rotations superbly. The influx of young talent from the DSTV Diski Challenge (reserve) squad has fortified their defense, making them almost impenetrable, particularly since Mbekezeli Mbokazi’s breakthrough.
Pyramids FC, on the other hand, is arguably on the brink of becoming an African powerhouse. Founded as Al Assiouty Sport in 2008, the club was purchased by Turki Al-Sheikh in 2018, who rebranded it to Pyramids FC and moved it to Cairo. Following Salem Al Shamsi’s acquisition a year later, the club has made significant strides, currently leading the Egyptian Premier League and having clinched their first major title by winning last season's Egypt Cup.
This semi-final clash marks the first encounter between Orlando Pirates and Pyramids FC, but both teams are establishing themselves as formidable forces in African football. With Al Ahly and Mamelodi Sundowns squaring off in the other semi-final, this could be a pivotal year for both Egyptian and South African football.
Orlando Pirates media officer Thandi Merafe confirmed that the match was moved to FNB Stadium due to a church service at Orlando Stadium, dispelling rumors that the switch was related to the on-pitch clashes after Pirates’ home match with MC Alger, which resulted in a R1.3 million ($70,000) fine from CAF. Merafe stated, “This has always happened at Orlando Stadium. From the word go, from the time we’ve become the resident team at Orlando Stadium, the chairman has always made it clear that if there is any plans for church activity, we’ll much respect that it’s a big Christian weekend.”
As for team news, winger Monnapule Saleng is nearing a return after being sidelined for over four months amid a rumored contractual dispute. However, the Pirates will still be without long-term injury absentees Thabiso Monyane, Zakhele Lepasa, Olisa Ndah, Thabiso Sesane, and Thabiso Lebitso, who are unlikely to be ready for this game.
In terms of performance, Orlando Pirates are currently unbeaten in their last eight matches across all competitions, and they have not conceded a goal in their last four matches. Conversely, Pyramids FC is winless in their last three matches, with one draw and two losses. This statistical contrast sets the stage for an intriguing matchup.
Historically, Orlando Pirates have boasted an impressive home record in the CAF Champions League this season, and they will aim to maintain that against Pyramids. The Buccaneers have transformed their home ground into a fortress since the start of the group stage, with both on-field and off-field performances rallying the fans behind them. The Pirates supporters, known as The Ghost, have been instrumental in creating an electrifying atmosphere at matches.
In their last outing, the Pirates fans showcased their passion and intensity, lighting flares during the game against MC Alger, which culminated in violent altercations following the match. The Pirates secured a 1-0 aggregate victory over Alger in the quarter-finals, a result that must have stung for the Algerian side, who had hoped to become only the second team to score in Orlando since the group stage.
As the Pirates prepare for this high-stakes encounter, they are not only aiming to win the continental title under coach José Riveiro in his last season but also to celebrate their 30-year anniversary in style. Thirty years ago, the Pirates made history by defeating TP Mazembe in the Ivory Coast, marking their ascent in African football. Their best run since then was 12 years ago when they reached the finals but fell short against Al Ahly.
With the return leg against Pyramids FC scheduled for a week later in Egypt, the Pirates are keen to capitalize on their home advantage. The key to their success will likely hinge on maintaining a clean sheet and securing a victory, setting them one step closer to the final.
In summary, the first leg of the CAF Champions League semi-final promises to be a thrilling encounter. With both teams eager to make their mark, fans can expect an exhilarating match filled with passion, skill, and high stakes. As the Pirates and Pyramids prepare to clash, all eyes will be on FNB Stadium this Saturday evening.
