Pyramids coach Krunoslav Jurcic warns of tough Power Dynamos clash

Pyramids head coach Krunoslav Jurcic expects a demanding away clash against Zambia’s Power Dynamos in the CAF Champions League group stage, despite his team’s strong start to the competition.

The defending African champions visit Levy Mwanawasa Stadium in Ndola aiming for a second straight group win after beating Rivers United 3-0, while Moroccan side RS Berkane also opened with a big victory over Power Dynamos.​

Jurcic told reporters the Zambian champions will be dangerous on home soil, backed by their fans and motivated to react following their heavy defeat in the first round. He explained that his staff studied Power Dynamos’ last match against RS Berkane, along with several domestic fixtures, and saw a disciplined side with talented players that deserves full respect. The Croatian coach stressed that Pyramids play every game, home or away, with the mentality of champions and are targeting three points to reach six before a long break in continental competitions.​

Jurcic admitted Pyramids will miss several key names through injury and suspension, including Ramadan Sobhi, Osama Galal, Mostafa Fathi and Mohanad Lasheen, but insisted the squad functions as a united group where any player can step up. He dismissed talk that previous victories over Zambian clubs give his team a guaranteed edge, saying past results mean nothing without effort and focus on the pitch.​

Goalkeeper Ahmed El Shenawy echoed his coach’s cautious tone, describing Power Dynamos as a strong opponent even after their opening loss. He underlined that Pyramids must show the personality of African champions, push for victory in Zambia and then quickly switch attention back to domestic league duties.​

Pyramids completed their final training session on Friday at a secondary pitch after CAF adjusted the schedule, moving their main session on the match stadium to Thursday due to another fixture involving Zesco United and Al Masry in the Confederation Cup.

The squad also received encouragement from Egypt’s ambassador to Zambia, who spoke with club officials and players via video call, while a symbolic exchange of gifts between the diplomatic mission and Pyramids leadership highlighted the national support behind the team’s campaign.