Pyramids fly to Kenya by private jet before Gor Mahia Champions League tie

Pyramids FC have travelled to Kenya by private jet as part of their preparations for Sunday’s CAF Champions League first-leg clash against Gor Mahia, according to reports.

The Egyptian side, coached by Rulani Mokwena, arrived in Nairobi on Thursday after a five-hour flight, giving the squad extra time to acclimatise before the opening preliminary-round fixture.

Pyramids begin another bid to reach the Champions League group stage after falling short in last season’s knockout phase, when they were eliminated in the quarter-finals despite entering the competition as defending champions.

The club’s early arrival is part of an effort to ensure the players are fully prepared for the challenge posed by the Kenyan champions, who will host the first leg before the return fixture in Egypt.

Mokwena has named a strong travelling squad led by experienced goalkeeper Ahmed El Shenawy, with defenders Osama Galal and Karim Hafez also included.

The midfield features Walid El Karti, Nasser Maher and Mostafa Fathi, while forwards Dudu Al-Jabbas, Youssef Obama and Ahmed Nadhir Bou Ali will spearhead the attack.

The winner of the two-legged tie will progress to the next stage of Africa’s premier club competition.