Pyramids FC maintain perfect Egyptian Premier League record under Rulani Mokwena

Rulani Mokwena’s Pyramids FC restored their place at the top of the Egyptian Premier League with a 4-1 victory over Ceramica Cleopatra, extending their winning run to six matches.

Pyramids had fallen to second after Al Ahly SC defeated Zamalek SC on the previous night. The result meant Mokwena’s team had to win to regain the lead, but they were given an early warning when Ceramica Cleopatra went ahead in the fifth minute.

Abdallah Magdy, formerly a Pyramids player, opened the scoring for Cleopatra to put the 2024/25 CAF Champions League winners under pressure.

Their response was immediate. Egypt international Mostafa Ziko equalised nine minutes later, making it 1-1 and giving Pyramids renewed momentum. Mokwena had praised Ziko after Egypt’s defeat by Bafana Bafana, and the forward again demonstrated why he is regarded as an important player for the club.

Pyramids completed the turnaround after 20 minutes when Algerian international striker Ahmed Nadhir Benbouali put them in front for the first time. The 26-year-old, who was part of Algeria’s squad at the previous FIFA World Cup, has scored one goal for his country.

The visitors continued to threaten whenever they moved into Cleopatra’s half. Their pressure produced a third goal with eight minutes of the first half remaining, as Mohanad Lasheen finished a fine move to extend the advantage to 3-1.

The goal added to Lasheen’s contribution on the night, with the midfielder also providing an assist.

Pyramids adopted a more controlled approach after the interval. They remained compact defensively and moved the ball patiently as they sought to control the pace of the contest.

Mokwena used five substitutes between the 59th and 69th minutes, including Youssef Obama. The 31-year-old made an immediate impact, scoring Pyramids’ fourth goal in the 77th minute to put the result beyond doubt.

The final whistle confirmed a sixth win in six league matches for Mokwena’s side. Al-Ahram returned to the summit, moving two points clear of Al Ahly SC.

Pyramids will now turn their attention to the CAF Champions League. Their next fixture is against Sudanese club El-Merriekh in the second preliminary round this coming weekend.