Pyramids FC will take on FAR Rabat on Tuesday in the first leg of the CAF Champions League quarter-finals, with the Egyptian side eager to break their winless streak against Moroccan clubs in continental competition.
Currently sitting at the top of the Egyptian Premier League, Pyramids FC enters the tie in strong form, having recently thrashed NBE Club 4-0 in the Egypt Cup semi-finals.
Their Champions League campaign has also been impressive, finishing second in Group D with 13 points, level with Espérance Tunis but behind on goal difference.
Meanwhile, FAR Rabat secured top spot in Group B, collecting 10 points ahead of South Africa’s Mamelodi Sundowns.
A tough challenge ahead
Pyramids FC head coach Krunoslav Jurcic acknowledged the difficulty of the task at hand but remains confident in his squad’s ability to compete.
“The match against the Royal Moroccan Army will be extremely difficult. They are a major team in Africa, with a wealth of continental experience. We have studied their game and we are ready,” Jurcic said in a pre-match press conference.
Despite their winless record in six CAF matches against Moroccan teams, the Croatian tactician believes his side is capable of changing the narrative.
“Pyramids has very experienced players, capable of making the difference. We have analyzed AS FAR’s strengths and weaknesses, and we will seek to exploit them to obtain a good result before the return match,” he added.
Squad ready for the fight
Pyramids FC will rely on their attacking trio of Ramadan Sobhi, Ibrahim Adel, and Fiston Mayele, supported by Blati Touré and Mostafa Fathi in midfield.
With an emphasis on offensive football, the Cairo-based side is keen to establish an advantage before the return leg on April 8 at the Larbi Zaouli Stadium in Casablanca.
Goalkeeper Ahmed El Shennawy also shared his determination ahead of the fixture.
“We have progressed as a team and we are determined to achieve our goal. Nothing will stop us,” he stated.
A formidable opponent
FAR Rabat boasts one of the strongest defensive records in the tournament, having conceded just four goals in the group stage.
Their experience on the continental stage makes them a formidable opponent, and they will be aiming to extend Pyramids FC’s struggles against Moroccan opposition.
The winner of this tie will face either MC Alger or Orlando Pirates in the semi-finals, presenting a golden opportunity for Pyramids FC to make history by reaching the last four of the CAF Champions League for the first time.
