FAR Rabat Triumphs Over Pyramids FC in Thrilling Quarter-Final Clash
In a stunning turn of events, defending champions Pyramids FC have been eliminated from the TotalEnergies CAF Champions League after suffering a 2-1 defeat at home against Morocco’s FAR Rabat. This loss culminated in a 3-2 aggregate score that propelled FAR Rabat into the semi-finals of the prestigious tournament. The Egyptian team, which had initially settled for a 1-1 draw in the first leg in Rabat, faced immense pressure to deliver a strong performance in Cairo. However, they were ultimately undone by the disciplined and clinical approach of the Moroccan military side.
The visitors made a remarkable start, silencing the home crowd within the first 10 minutes of the match. A swift counter-attack down the right wing saw Youssef El Fahli charge forward and set up Reda Slim, who finished emphatically into the top corner, giving FAR Rabat an early lead. This goal shifted the momentum squarely in favor of the Moroccan team, compelling Pyramids to chase the game far earlier than they had anticipated.
Despite having more possession as the first half progressed, the hosts struggled to penetrate a well-organized FAR Rabat defense. Their frustration became palpable when they appealed for a penalty after a suspected handball in the area, but after consulting VAR, the referee maintained his original decision, leaving Pyramids without any lifeline. FAR Rabat continued to pose a threat on the counter-attack and from set-pieces, and their persistence bore fruit early in the second half.
In the 55th minute, Reda Slim turned from scorer to provider, delivering a precision corner that was met with power by captain Rabie El Harimat. His header beat goalkeeper Ahmed El Shenawy, doubling the visitors' lead and putting Pyramids on the brink of elimination. With their backs against the wall, the Egyptian side needed an immediate response to keep their title hopes alive, and just two minutes later, Fiston Mayele managed to pull a goal back for Pyramids. Reacting quickest inside the penalty area, he converted a well-delivered free kick, reigniting the belief among the home supporters.
The stage was set for a tense final thirty minutes as Pyramids pressed forward in search of the equalizer that would keep their title defense alive. Despite their urgency, they were unable to create clear-cut chances against a resolute FAR Rabat backline. Mohamed El-Sheibi, one of Pyramids’ standout performers on the night, continued to deliver dangerous balls into the area, yet the Moroccan defense remained steadfast. One of the best opportunities for the hosts fell to a late substitute, who unfortunately fired over the crossbar after connecting with a well-placed cross, encapsulating a frustrating evening for the reigning champions.
On the other side of the pitch, FAR Rabat demonstrated intelligent game management, slowing the pace when necessary and effectively limiting Pyramids’ attacking rhythm. The final whistle confirmed a momentous victory for FAR Rabat, who advances to the semi-finals with newfound confidence after eliminating one of the tournament favorites. For Pyramids, this defeat marks a disappointing conclusion to their title defense, especially after entering the tie with high expectations following last season’s triumph. As FAR Rabat looks ahead to the semi-finals with renewed belief, Pyramids is left to ponder the missed opportunities in a match that ultimately slipped through their fingers on home soil.
As reported by cafonline.com.
