It is now or never for Orlando Pirates, particularly for their head coach, Jose Riveiro, who is set to leave soon.
The mighty Buccaneers are in Egypt for the crucial Caf Champions League semi-final second leg against Pyramids FC.
The helluva clash is scheduled to take place at Cairo’s June 30 Stadium on Friday at 20:00.
Riveiro announced his decision to step down at the end of the campaign, and the Champions League presents him with an opportunity to certify his already legendary status.
With the sides having played to a goalless draw in South Africa, Pirates head to the clash with a slight advantage as a stalemate with goals with see them through.
However, the Pyramids will be expected to do everything to protect their goal line and attempt to breach the Soweto giants’ solid defence.
The hosts will be hoping that their strong run at the 30 June Stadium continues. They have been enjoying a good run on their home ground, going over six matches without tasting a defeat in all competitions, claiming four victories and two draws.
The Sea Robbers, on the other hand, are on an impressive run in the continental competition, being the only team that has yet to taste defeat.
How to watch
The match will be broadcast on SABC 2, SABC Plus and SuperSport Channel 202 and 209 from 19:55.
Live commentary will be available on various SABC radio stations.
Betting odds
Pyramids are favourites with home advantage, but don’t rule out Pirates, who have travelled well and are unbeaten in the tournament to date.
Back them to win the match. To place a bet, head over to Hollywoodbets.net.
17/20 Pyramids | Draw 17/10 | Orlando Pirates 4/1
Players to watch
Sipho Chaine, Mbekezeli Mbokazi, Nkosinathi Sibisi and Makhehleni Makhaula have been a pillar of the Buccaneers’ defence and will need to give it their all on Friday to reach their third final this season.
Fiston Mayele found the net in the first half, but the referee disallowed the goal after reviewing VAR and determined that Mayele was slightly offside. He will be key again for the hosts.
🏆 #TotalEnergiesCAFCL 2nd Leg SF
— Orlando Pirates (@orlandopirates) April 25, 2025
🎙Assistant Coach | Mandla Ncikazi:
"We just here for one reason, an opportunity to play
in the final"
🆚 @pyramidsfc
🗓️ 25 April 2025
⏰ 20H00 (SAST)
🏟️ 30 June Stadium-Cairo
📺 @SABC2
📺 @SuperSportTV
⚫⚪🔴⭐#OrlandoPirates… pic.twitter.com/eekSc8E0NQ
