Pyramids take control against Gor Mahia with CAF Champions League first-leg win

Pyramids FC moved strongly towards the second round of the CAF Champions League preliminary stage after securing a convincing 2-0 victory away to Kenyan champions Gor Mahia.

Rulani Mokwena’s side established a two-goal advantage at Nyoyo National Stadium and will take it into the second leg in Egypt next weekend. The result also extended Pyramids’ winning run to four matches in all competitions, while they remain unbeaten defensively since Mokwena took charge.

The visitors made the ideal start, taking the lead inside five minutes through Walid El Karti. Mostafa Fathi created the opening with a powerful effort that forced the Gor Mahia goalkeeper into a save, but the ball fell into El Karti’s path. The midfielder reacted quickly to guide the rebound into the net from close range.

Gor Mahia responded by trying to increase the pressure and search for an equaliser. Their attempts to commit players forward, however, left space for Pyramids to exploit at the other end.

Pyramids took advantage shortly before half-time, with Mahmoud Saber adding a second goal. The strike gave the visitors a significant advantage and left Gor Mahia facing the difficult task of overturning a two-goal deficit after the interval.

Mokwena’s team adopted a more controlled approach in the second half. Rather than continuing to commit numbers in attack, Pyramids stayed compact and prioritised protecting their lead.

That approach enabled them to preserve a clean sheet and complete a valuable away victory. Gor Mahia were unable to find a way through the Pyramids defence, leaving the Egyptian club with a clear advantage before the return match.

The result represents a major step towards the next stage for the 2024/25 CAF Champions League winners. Pyramids will now aim to complete the job in the second leg next weekend and secure their place in the second round of the preliminary competition.

For Mokwena, the win continues an impressive early sequence in which Pyramids have combined consistent results with defensive resilience. They have now won four matches in succession in all competitions and have not conceded a goal during his time in charge.

Gor Mahia will need to score at least twice in Egypt to level the tie, while Pyramids can progress by protecting their advantage. The first-leg victory gives Mokwena’s side the stronger position as both teams prepare for the decisive meeting.