CAF Champions League semi-final: Orlando Pirates and Pyramids confirm starting lineups for first leg clash

Orlando Pirates and Pyramids FC have confirmed their starting elevens ahead of this evening’s CAF Champions League semi-final first leg encounter, scheduled to kick off at 16:00 GMT.

The South African giants, who are looking to secure a place in the final for the first time since their 2013 campaign, will host the Egyptian side at home, where a strong result will be crucial ahead of next week’s return leg in Cairo.

The Pirates’ technical team has named a familiar starting XI, with goalkeeper Sipho Chaine entrusted between the posts.

The defensive quartet comprises Nkosinathi Sibisi, Tapelo Xoki, Thabiso Monyane, and Deon Hotto, who will be tasked with keeping the Pyramids’ attack at bay.

In midfield, the Buccaneers have opted for a dynamic trio of Thabang Monare, Makhehleni Makhaula, and Ndabayithethwa Ndlondlo.

The attacking duties fall to Monnapule Saleng and Patrick Maswanganyi on the wings, with Tshegofatso Mabasa leading the line as the central striker.

For Pyramids FC, the Cairo-based club has named a competitive side as they aim to reach the CAF Champions League final for the first time in their history.

Veteran goalkeeper Ahmed El-Shenawy starts in goal, with a defensive unit that includes Ahmed Sami, Mohamed Hamdy, and Mohamed Lashin.

The trio will be supported by the experienced Hamdi Fathi and Ali Gabr, providing both solidity and leadership at the back.

In midfield, Pyramids field Walid El-Karti, Mostafa Fathy, and Burkinabé international Ibrahim Touré.

The attacking line features the Congolese striker Fiston Mayele, a constant threat in front of goal, and Mahmoud Marei, who has been in solid form throughout the tournament.

Both sides are expected to adopt an aggressive yet disciplined approach as they look to gain an edge before the second leg.

Orlando Pirates will rely heavily on home advantage, while Pyramids will aim to secure an away goal that could prove pivotal in a tie that is likely to be decided by fine margins.

With a place in the CAF Champions League final at stake, tonight’s clash promises high-intensity football, tactical battles across the pitch, and moments of individual brilliance that could tilt the balance in favour of either side.

The return leg will take place in Egypt next weekend, where the aggregate winner will advance to the final.

Confirmed Starting Lineups:

Orlando Pirates XI: Sipho Chaine – Nkosinathi Sibisi, Tapelo Xoki, Thabiso Monyane, Deon Hotto – Thabang Monare, Makhehleni Makhaula, Ndabayithethwa Ndlondlo – Monnapule Saleng, Patrick Maswanganyi, Tshegofatso Mabasa.

Pyramids FC XI: Ahmed El-Shenawy – Ahmed Sami, Mohamed Hamdy, Mohamed Lashin, Ali Gabr – Hamdi Fathi, Walid El-Karti, Ibrahim Touré – Mostafa Fathy, Mahmoud Marei, Fiston Mayele.

Kick-off is set for 16:00 GMT, with fans across the continent eagerly anticipating this heavyweight showdown in African club football’s most prestigious competition.