Al Ahly's loss to Mamelodi Sundowns in the semi-finals of the CAF Champions League still haunts some of Egypt's legends, with one of the retired players now placing his hopes in Pyramids FC.
Sundowns clinched a spot in the final of this season's Champions League after holding the Red Devils to a 1-1 draw in the second leg in Egypt. The two African giants had played to a goalless draw in the first leg in Pretoria, and ultimately, Downs progressed on the away goals rule.
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Masandawana will now travel to Cairo to face Egyptian Premier League outfit Pyramids in the second leg of the final, following a share of the spoils after a 1-1 stalemate in the first leg in Tshwane.
Now, a former Al Ahly midfielder Islam El Shater believes Pyramids FC have what it takes to achieve what Ahly couldn’t, which is to overcome the star-studded Sundowns and bring the continental title back to Egypt.
"This season's league title was special in every way, because the team came away from a loss to Sundowns due to clear mistakes. I can say this frankly, I was a staunch supporter of Kohler, but he made major mistakes in that match, so it was only natural for him to leave after that," El Shater said, according to Btolat.com.
"Emad El Nahhas focused on the psychological aspect in his dealings with the players, and this had a clear impact on the field, and he succeeded in making a difference."
"Emad El-Nahhas gave Al Ahly players freedom on the field, but at the same time, there were clear tactical commitments, both defensively and offensively. When the ball reached any player, he knew how to handle it. If Emad El-Nahhas had played at 50 or 60% of his potential against Sundowns, we would have won," he continued.
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"I salute Pyramids FC and everyone who works there. They are doing a fantastic job and have a very strong squad. Their two losses had a huge impact. You can't lose like that to Al Ahly. Pyramids FC have created a good atmosphere in the Egyptian league and they deserve our respect and appreciation.
"I hope Pyramids win the CAF Champions League final against Sundowns. The match isn't over yet, there are still 90 minutes to go. I hope my message reaches the Pyramids players, as they represent Egypt in this tournament. No matter what is said or what happens, Pyramids is an Egyptian club, and I will support them in this match. I hope they win the CAF Champions League title and qualify for the Club World Cup."
