Mamelodi Sundowns were denied a home victory in the first leg of the 2024/25 CAF Champions League final as Walid El Karti’s well-timed header secured a 1-1 draw for Egypt’s Pyramids FC at Loftus Versfeld Stadium in Pretoria on Saturday evening.
The South African champions made a flying start to the encounter, taking the lead in the 10th minute through Brazilian attacker Lucas Ribeiro Costa. The in-form forward combined brilliantly with Themba Zwane, drifting into the box before calmly finishing past goalkeeper Ahmed El Shenawy. It was Costa’s sixth goal of the tournament, further underlining his pivotal role in Sundowns’ run to the final.
Rulani Mokwena’s side dominated possession and looked in control throughout the first half, pressing high and creating several opportunities. Neo Maema and Teboho Mokoena both came close to doubling the lead, but Pyramids’ defense held firm, with Shenawy making key saves to keep the Egyptians in the contest.
Despite being under pressure for large spells, Pyramids gradually found their rhythm. The Cairo-based club began to impose themselves in midfield after the break, and their patience paid off in the 73rd minute. Ramadan Sobhi delivered a precise cross into the box, which was expertly nodded home by Walid El Karti, catching the Sundowns defense off guard and silencing the home crowd.
The equaliser injected confidence into the visitors, who nearly stole a late winner when substitute Fiston Mayele broke through on goal, but Sundowns keeper Ronwen Williams was alert to deny him with a vital save.
The result leaves the tie delicately poised ahead of the decisive second leg in Cairo on Saturday, May 31, at the 30 June Stadium.
With an away goal in hand, Pyramids FC will feel they have the edge, while Sundowns must now dig deep to keep their hopes of a second Champions League crown—following their 2016 triumph—alive.
