Pyramids FC coach: ‘Absent AS FAR supporters are influential but match played on the pitch’

Krunoslav Jurcic, head coach of Pyramids FC, said he is fully aware of the difficulty of the upcoming clash against Morocco’s AS FAR, stressing that he has great respect for the opponent and that his team has prepared well for the encounter.

Pyramids, the reigning African champions, will face AS FAR at the Olympic Stadium in Rabat at 10:00 PM GMT on Saturday in the first leg of the quarter-finals of the CAF Champions League.

Speaking during the pre-match press conference held at the Olympic Stadium in Rabat, Krunoslav Jurcic explained that he has studied the Moroccan side well.

“I studied FAR Rabat very well and I know that the team has not changed much compared to last season when we met at the same stage and Pyramids managed to qualify before eventually winning the title,” he said.

He added that the Moroccan club has largely maintained the same squad, which reflects the mentality of champion teams that prefer stability and continuity.

“Therefore, I expect a very strong and exciting match, and I believe the tie will only be decided in the second leg in Cairo,” the Croatian coach continued.

🎥 HIGHLIGHTS: Pyramids FC 1-0 RS Berkane

A powerful Mayele strike was the difference-maker, sealing the title for Pyramids FC. 💥💙#TotalEnergiesCAFSC pic.twitter.com/SAx5QD1ZhD

— TotalEnergies CAFCL & CAFCC 🏆 (@CAFCLCC) October 19, 2025

Jurcic also highlighted that carrying the continental title places a major responsibility on the team.

“Winning the African title puts great responsibility on Pyramids to defend the trophy, and we must remain focused on achieving this big objective,” he said.

The coach stressed that the team is in a good mental state and full strength for the challenge.

“Pyramids are mentally ready and entering a crucial stage where we will continue our continental journey with full strength in order to retain the title and repeat last year’s achievement, which many people did not expect at all,” he added.

Jurcic also revealed that FAR Rabat will miss an important player, Mohamed Rabie Hrimat, due to suspension. However, he noted that Pyramids FC will also be without several key players, including Walid El Karti, Ramadan Sobhi and Mohamed Hamdy.

Regarding the absence of supporters, Jurcic admitted it could have an impact, but insisted that the outcome will ultimately be decided on the pitch.

“It is certainly influential, but in the end it is a match between players on the field, and the team that is more focused and better prepared will win. Pyramids are playing for victory and there is no alternative,” he concluded.

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