Defending African champions Pyramids FC have been knocked out of the CAF Champions League after a 2-1 defeat at home to AS FAR Rabat in the second leg of their quarter-final tie.
The result sees the Moroccan side progress to the semi-finals, ending Pyramids FC’s title defence and marking a significant upset in the competition. AS FAR delivered a composed performance, capitalising on key moments to secure their place in the next round.
Facing the difficult task of overcoming the reigning champions on their own ground, AS FAR made an immediate impact. Reda Slim gave the visitors an early advantage in the ninth minute, finishing from a precise assist by Youssef El Fahli to silence the home crowd.
The early goal set the tone for the visitors, who continued to press and disrupt Pyramids FC’s rhythm. Their persistence paid off again shortly after the interval, when Mohamed Harmiat doubled the lead in the 54th minute. The move was initiated by Slim, who turned provider to assist the second goal and further strengthen AS FAR’s position.
With a two-goal deficit, Pyramids FC were forced to respond. The Egyptian side regrouped and found a way back into the match in the 62nd minute, as Congolese forward Fiston Mayele reduced the arrears with a well-taken goal.
The home side pushed forward in search of an equaliser, creating pressure and attempting to break down AS FAR’s defence. However, the Moroccan team remained organised and resilient, holding firm under sustained pressure to preserve their advantage until the final whistle.
The victory carries added significance for AS FAR, who had been eliminated at the same stage of the competition by Pyramids FC in the previous season. On that occasion, the Egyptian club went on to win the tournament, making this result both a progression and a form of redemption for the Rabat-based side.
AS FAR now turn their attention to the semi-finals, where they will face either RS Berkane or Al Hilal Omdurman.
