Pyramids FC took a significant step towards the CAF Champions League semi-finals with a 3-1 victory over AS FAR Rabat in the first leg of their quarter-final clash on Tuesday evening.
A dominant first-half display saw the Egyptian club race into a commanding lead, with Fiston Mayélé delivering a standout performance by scoring twice.
Mayélé strikes early
The match got off to a blistering start as Pyramids FC wasted no time imposing their authority.
Just two minutes into the contest, DR Congo international Fiston Mayélé broke the deadlock, punishing AS FAR’s defense with a clinical finish.
The 26-year-old forward doubled his tally in the 12th minute, capitalizing on a well-worked attacking move to give the Egyptian side a 2-0 lead.
The early deficit left AS FAR struggling to regain their footing, with Pyramids FC continuing to dictate the tempo.
A crucial lifeline for AS FAR
As the first half progressed, Pyramids FC extended their advantage further.
Ibrahim Adel made it 3-0 in the 38th minute, putting the Moroccan visitors under immense pressure.
With their defense exposed and their hopes fading, AS FAR desperately needed a response before the break.
They found a glimmer of hope in injury time, when Abdelfattah Haddraf struck to pull a goal back for the Moroccan champions.
His effort reduced the deficit to 3-1, ensuring AS FAR remained in contention heading into the second leg.
Second leg still open
Despite their two-goal advantage, Pyramids FC will be aware that the tie is far from over.
AS FAR has proven resilient throughout the tournament, and Haddraf’s late goal could provide them with much-needed momentum for the return leg.
The Egyptian side will now prepare to defend their lead in Rabat, where the Moroccan club will be determined to overturn the deficit and keep their Champions League aspirations alive.
