CAF Champions League Quarterfinals: Al Ahly, Sundowns, and Pyramids Advance as Orlando Pirates Prepare for Final Test

 The 2024/25 CAF Champions League quarterfinals are living up to their billing, with a string of tightly contested fixtures producing high-stakes drama and crowning new semifinalists. From Cairo to Rabat, and now to Soweto, Africa’s premier club competition has once again showcased the depth, resilience, and tactical prowess of the continent's elite football sides.

Al Ahly Edge Past Al Hilal with Late Strike

In Omdurman, Al Ahly of Egypt once again demonstrated their pedigree in continental football with a 1-0 away victory over Sudan’s Al Hilal. The result, which sealed a 2-0 aggregate win, came courtesy of a composed finish from midfielder Emam Ashour in the 80th minute. Ashour capitalized on a rare defensive lapse, drilling home the goal that sent the Red Devils through to yet another Champions League semifinal.

Al Ahly’s display was marked by discipline and experience, weathering the early intensity from Al Hilal before asserting control in the second half. The Egyptian giants, who are no strangers to deep runs in this competition, now look well-positioned to pursue a record-extending 12th title.

Mamelodi Sundowns Hold Their Nerve in Tunis

Over in North Africa, Mamelodi Sundowns of South Africa executed a professional performance to see off Esperance Sportive de Tunis. The 0-0 draw at the Stade Olympique de Radès was enough to secure a 1-0 aggregate victory, following their narrow win in the first leg.

Coach Rulani Mokwena’s men showed immense tactical discipline, effectively shutting down ES Tunis' attacking threats throughout the 90 minutes. It was a defensive masterclass anchored by Ronwen Williams in goal and the ever-composed Mothobi Mvala in central defense. The result means Sundowns are into the last four for the second consecutive season, further underlining their continental ambitions.

Pyramids FC Survive FAR Rabat Scare

In Rabat, Pyramids FC were forced to dig deep despite carrying a healthy first-leg advantage. Moroccan side FAR Rabat produced a spirited performance in front of their home fans, winning 2-0 on the night with goals from Youssef El Fahli in the 8th minute and Joel Beya in the 82nd.

While the victory leveled the tie on the night, it was not enough to overturn the 4-1 defeat they suffered in Cairo. The Egyptians progressed 4-3 on aggregate, but not without moments of concern, particularly in the dying minutes as FAR pressed for a dramatic equalizer.

Pyramids FC’s qualification marks their first-ever appearance in the Champions League semifinals — a significant milestone for a club with continental aspirations and a growing reputation in African football.

Orlando Pirates Set for Decisive Showdown with MC Alger

The last remaining quarterfinal clash will see South Africa’s Orlando Pirates host Algeria’s MC Alger in Soweto on Wednesday evening, holding a slender 1-0 advantage from the first leg in Algiers.

The Buccaneers will be counting on their home crowd at the Orlando Stadium to carry them over the line. While their advantage is slight, it could prove crucial in a tie where margins are razor-thin. Pirates will need to remain compact and organized defensively while looking to hit on the counter, with the likes of Monnapule Saleng and Patrick Maswanganyi expected to play key roles.

MC Alger, meanwhile, will approach the match with urgency, knowing that just one goal could change the complexion of the tie. Their aggressive style and aerial threat on set-pieces will require vigilance from the hosts.

What’s Next

With Al Ahly, Mamelodi Sundowns, and Pyramids FC already through, attention now turns to Soweto for what promises to be another thrilling contest. The winners of the Orlando Pirates vs. MC Alger fixture will join the semifinal lineup, setting the stage for the next chapter in this season’s riveting Champions League campaign.

Fans are encouraged to follow official CAF platforms and trusted sports outlets for live updates, post-match analysis, and semifinal draw details.

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