CAFCL: Pyramids survive late onslaught from AS FAR to reach semis

It was a narrow escape for Egypt's Pyramids FC as they secured their spot in the 2024-25 CAF Champions League semifinals after defeating FAR Rabat 4-3 on aggregate. The Moroccan side were 2-0 winners on Tuesday night at the Stade d’Honneur but the Egyptian outfit defended just well enough to progress.

It was a brilliant start for the hosts, who broke the deadlock in the eighth minute through Youssef El Fahli. El Fahli found the back of the net with a composed finish after a superb cutback by Khalid Ait Ouarkhane.

The home side dominated the first half but scoring opportunities were limited. The visitors opted for a more defensive approach and rarely threatened to score. Congolese striker Fiston Mayele thought he had grabbed a crucial goal for the away side before halftime but it was ruled out for offside after a VAR intervention.

Following the restart, FAR Rabat continued their attack-minded strategy and nearly doubled their lead when El Fahli was denied by Pyramids goalkeeper Ahmed El Shenawy. In the 82nd minute, against the run of play, second half substitute Joel Beya scored the second goal with a well-taken shot inside the box.

The last ten minutes of the tie were tense at both ends but Pyramids stood firm to protect their 4-3 lead on aggregate.

Pyramids have reached the semifinals of the Champions League for the first time. This is only their second season in the African club competition. They will face the winner of the Orlando Pirates vs. MC Alger tie, which concludes on Wednesday, in the semifinals.