Tradition Meets Ambition: Orlando Pirates vs Pyramids FC

Orlando Pirates return to the semi-finals of Africa’s premier club competition for the first time since 2013, while Egyptian side Pyramids FC make their debut at this stage in what promises to be a fascinating clash of football cultures.

THE JOURNEYS

Orlando Pirates: The 1995 champions are seeking continental glory after a long absence from the latter stages. Their path to the semi-finals has been built on resilience and tactical discipline, culminating in a hard-fought 1-0 aggregate win over MC Alger in the quarter-finals.

Pyramids FC: Founded only in 2008 (originally as Al Assiouty Sport before being purchased and rebranded in 2018), represents the new wave of Egyptian football. After making waves in the TotalEnergies CAF Confederation Cup in recent years, their arrival in the TotalEnergies CAF Champions League semi-finals marks the culmination of an ambitious project designed to challenge the traditional hierarchy.

TACTICAL BREAKDOWN

Pirates’ Approach: Jose Riveiro has transformed the Buccaneers into a defensively solid unit with lethal counter-attacking capability. What stands out about this Pirates team is their balance—Thapelo Xoki’s composure in defence, Patrick Maswanganyi’s spark in midfield, and Evidence Makgopa’s menace up front.

Pyramids’ Style: In contrast, Pyramids employ a high-pressing, possession-based football philosophy led by technical midfielders. Their 4-1 demolition of FAR Rabat in the first leg of the quarter-finals demonstrated just how explosive they can be when given space to operate.

The clash features several fascinating individual battles that could determine the outcome:

Pirates’ Evidence Makgopa will test himself against Pyramids’ experienced defensive line.

The midfield battle between Maswanganyi (Pirates) and Ramadan Sobhi (Pyramids) could be the decisive factor

For Pirates, this represents a chance to reclaim their place among Africa’s elite after years in the continental wilderness. For their fans—the Ghost—this revival has been long awaited.

Pyramids, meanwhile, are looking to complete their rapid rise by reaching a final in just their first TotalEnergies CAF Champions League campaign. As newcomers backed by significant financial resources, they’re aiming to disrupt the established order.

Pirates’ experience in hostile African venues will be vital for the second leg in Cairo. Their recent form shows tremendous mental strength—they’ve won their last three away CAF Champions League matches without conceding.

However, Pyramids shouldn’t be underestimated despite being newcomers to this stage.

Their financial backing has allowed them to assemble a squad of experienced internationals who won’t be fazed by the occasion.