Pyramids FC edge Al-Merrikh Bentiu in CAF Champions League first-leg tie

Pyramids FC secured a 1-0 victory over Al-Merrikh Bentiu in the CAF Champions League round of 32, with Mahmoud Saber scoring the decisive goal.

The match remained goalless for the opening 30 minutes, although Pyramids FC created the clearer chances. Mahmoud Saber tested the goalkeeper with a powerful effort from inside the penalty area, while Abdelrahman Magdy sent a free-kick attempt over the crossbar.

Al-Merrikh Bentiu also looked to break the deadlock, but a cross into the Pyramids FC penalty area was dealt with successfully by Iyad El Askalany.

Pyramids FC eventually took the lead through Saber. The midfielder collected the ball inside the area and struck firmly into the net to make it 1-0.

The hosts continued to control possession in midfield without creating sustained danger, while Al-Merrikh Bentiu made attempts to find an equaliser. Pyramids FC goalkeeper Ahmed El Shenawy was forced to leave the action temporarily after suffering a serious injury, bringing the game to a halt before play resumed.

Before the interval, Pyramids FC continued to press for a second goal. Mostafa Abdel Raouf Zico fired over from inside the area, while Abdelrahman Magdy saw another effort from close range saved by the goalkeeper.

Two minutes of added time were played at the end of the first half, with Pyramids FC taking their narrow advantage into the break.

Pyramids FC maintained possession after half-time and continued to look for openings. Nasser Maher’s powerful shot from outside the box was saved, while a cross from Mohamed Chibi found Youssef Obama, who headed over the bar.

Obama later sent another effort from inside the penalty area narrowly wide. Abdelrahman Magdy also had a shot blocked by the defence as Pyramids FC sought to extend their lead.

Al-Merrikh Bentiu mounted efforts to equalise during the second half, but Pyramids FC’s defence resisted. The match included two yellow cards for Pyramids FC players, along with several substitutions for the Egyptian side.

The Pyramids FC players listed in the match coverage included Mahmoud Marei, Ahmed Samy, Abdelrahman Magdy, Walid El Karti, Mahmoud Abdelhafiz Zlaka, Naser Benbouali, Ahmed Abdelkader, Nasser Maher, Mostafa Abdel Raouf Zico, Youssef Obama, Ahmed Tawfik, Ahmed Atef, Mahmoud Saber and Iyad El Askalany.

Pyramids FC remained in front through the final stages, with short passing in midfield helping them manage the game and preserve their 1-0 lead.