Pyramids FC Star Warns Teammates to Play “Very Carefully” Against Orlando Pirates in Crucial CAFCL Clash

Pyramids FC captain Ahmed El Shenawy has stressed the importance of caution and composure ahead of his side’s CAF Champions League semi-final second leg against Orlando Pirates on Friday, 25 April in Cairo.

The tie is delicately poised at 0-0 after the first leg in South Africa, leaving everything to play for in the return match. El Shenawy, who has been a key figure for the Egyptian outfit, says the team is focused on making history but must be mindful of the threat posed by their Soweto opponents.

“Pyramids players have great ambitions to achieve a huge accomplishment this season, and every player knows the extent of the responsibility they face,” El Shenawy told FilGoal. “Our goal is to achieve the treble of the league, the cup, and the Champions League.”

Despite the goalless draw in the first leg, El Shenawy warned that the result offers no guarantee, highlighting Orlando Pirates’ pace and tactical quality.

“We have to play very carefully against Orlando and not rush too hard in our desire to win, because the opponent is a distinguished team with speed, and a draw in South Africa means nothing so far,” he explained.

According to Pan-Africa Football, the veteran goalkeeper is hoping the game will be decided within the regular 90 minutes but assured fans the squad is ready for any situation that may arise.

“I hope Pyramids can score and qualify, and that the match doesn’t go to penalty shootouts to decide who reaches the final,” he said. “But in any case, I’m fully prepared—along with the rest of the players—for any scenario.”

El Shenawy emphasized that reaching the final is the immediate target, regardless of whether they face continental giants Al Ahly or Mamelodi Sundowns in the next round.

“I won’t worry too much about who we face—whether it’s Al Ahly or Sundowns—because Pyramids is ready for any opponent that comes next,” he declared.

Reflecting on his personal ambitions, El Shenawy expressed a burning desire to finally lift the Champions League trophy after falling short with Zamalek in the past.

“I’ve reached the final once and the semifinal another time with Zamalek but luck wasn’t on my side. I hope this year will be different and that I can lift the trophy,” he concluded.