Pyramids coach: Late goal against giants Sundowns is a proper reward for this great team

Photo credit: Pyramids FC

Croatian coach Krunoslav Jurčić, the head coach of Egyptian side Pyramids FC, expressed his immense pride in his team’s performance against a major side like Mamelodi Sundowns, a club with vast experience in the CAF Champions League.

Pyramids FC secured a late 1-1 draw with South Africa’s Mamelodi Sundowns in the first leg of the CAF Champions League final held in South Africa.

Jurčić stated: “Pyramids delivered a very strong performance and were the better side for most parts of the match. If not for bad luck, we could have scored several goals. In the end, Walid El Karti’s goal in the final minutes is a reward for this great team that has shown tremendous character.”

During the post-match press conference, Jurčić added: “I’m disappointed with the missed chances, but very happy with the draw and the outstanding performance from the players. Their personality and strong comeback after trailing by a goal is a reflection of the character we've built since I took charge. This scenario has repeated itself many times this season, both in the league and in continental competition — coming from behind to score and win — and that reflects the ideal character of our players.”

The Croatian coach continued: “My players were heroes and they deserve all the praise for their fantastic display. However, we haven’t achieved anything yet. We’ve only finished the first half, and we still have a second leg at home in Egypt in just one week. We must win and lift this precious title.”

Jurčić concluded: “Pyramids receives no support from anyone in Egypt and fights alone in every competition, despite representing Egypt in the most important tournament on the continent. The team must travel to Ismailia just 48 hours later to play a decisive league match against Ceramica Cleopatra that could determine the league champion. The starters must play due to the match’s importance. It would have been more appropriate to support Pyramids in this continental final so the club can bring the title home for Egypt.”

The second leg of the CAF Champions League final will be played on Sunday, June 1, at the Air Defense Stadium in Cairo.