Sports
Al Ahly and Pyramids FC Exit African Champions League Quarters
Egyptian football clubs Al Ahly and Pyramids FC both exited the African Champions League quarter-finals. Al Ahly lost to Esperance, while Pyramids FC were defeated by Morocco's Royal Armed Forces.
Al Ahly, the record 12-time African champions, took a 10th-minute lead via Mahmoud Trezeguet before Esperance levelled in the 68th minute when Florian Danho scored. Esperance then took the lead in the 78th minute when Mohamed Amine Tougai scored on a penalty. Pyramids' title defence ended after a 3-2 aggregate loss, despite drawing the first leg 1-1 in Rabat. Rida Slim scored in the ninth minute for the visitors at Cairo's 30 June Stadium, and Mohamed Rabie Hrimat increased the lead in the 54th minute. Fiston Mayele narrowed the deficit in the 62nd minute, but the Egyptians were unable to secure the equalizer needed to force penalties. Royal Armed Forces will play either Renaissance Berkane or Al-Hilal in the semi-finals.
Key Facts
- Al Ahly lost to Tunisia's Esperance in the African Champions League quarter-finals.
- Pyramids FC were defeated by Morocco's Royal Armed Forces.
- Royal Armed Forces secured a 3-2 aggregate victory over Pyramids FC.
- Royal Armed Forces forward Youssef El Fahli stated the team is determined to win the title.
- Royal Armed Forces previously won the African Cup of Champions Clubs in 1985.
- Al Ahly has won 12 African Champion titles.
- Esperance tied the game in the 68th minute, then took the lead in the 78th.
- The quarter-final losses occurred on Saturday.
Primary Source
Research Sources
- Asharq Al-Awsat English — Champions League Holders Pyramids and Record Winners Al Ahly Stunned in Quarters