Robert Sykes
Dailysports's expert
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On April 19, 2025, the first semifinal match of the African Champions League will take place at the Orlando Stadium in Johannesburg, featuring a clash between Orlando Pirates and Pyramids. There are doubts that the teams will deliver a high-scoring match.
Orlando
Orlando Pirates still have a chance to achieve a treble this season. The team recently reached the final of the South African Cup, where they will face one of the giants — Kaizer Chiefs. In the South African Premier Division, Orlando trails the perennial champions, Mamelodi Sundowns, by 12 points, but with three games in hand and seven rounds remaining in the competition, there is hope for a title challenge.
In the Champions League, Orlando Pirates confidently won their group without suffering a single defeat. Then, in the quarterfinals, they secured a narrow victory over the Algerian club MC Alger, winning with an aggregate score of 1-0.
Pyramids
Pyramids also navigated their qualifying group in the Champions League with confidence, but due to tiebreakers, they finished second behind the Tunisian club Espérance. In the playoff quarterfinals, the team defeated the Moroccan club FAR Rabat, winning with an aggregate score of 4-3.
In the Egyptian Premier League, Pyramids are at the top of the table, holding a 6-point advantage over second-placed Zamalek with six rounds to go, giving them a comfortable position in the title race.
Probable Lineups
- Orlando: Shane, van Rooyen, Soki, Sibisi, Mbokazi, Mbathe, Mofokeng, Mahaule, Nkota, Makgopa, Hotto
- Pyramids: El Shenawy, Chibi, Gabr, Sami, Hafez, Fathi, Mohanad Lashin, Toure, Sobhi, Adel, Mayele
Match Facts and H2H
- Orlando boasts an impressive defensive record — four consecutive matches without conceding a goal.
- Orlando Pirates are unbeaten in their last seven matches, with four wins and three draws.
- Pyramids have suffered two losses and a draw in their last three encounters, indicating a clear dip in form.
- Pyramids have conceded in four consecutive matches, highlighting issues in their defense.
Prediction
I expect the match between these teams to be extremely cautious, as it is their first encounter, and the semifinal stage of the tournament adds extra pressure. In such a situation, the "Under 2.5 goals" bet seems like a reasonable choice.
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