Match Preview
Croatian manager Krunoslav Juric of Pyramids acknowledged that the upcoming clash with Power Dynamos in Zambia will be tough, especially on their home ground in Ndola where the Zambian champions are chasing a positive result after their opening defeat.
Pyramids, the defending African title holders, head into the game as Group A leaders after a 3-0 victory over Rivers United, while Power Dynamos and Renaissance Berkane also contend for early momentum.
Juric stressed that the fixture will be difficult in every sense, given Dynamos’ home support and their ambition to bounce back after their first-round loss. He said he watched Dynamos’ latest match against Renaissance Berkane along with several domestic games, noting that despite the setback the Zambians remain a strong, dangerous side with several standout players.
Plans, Absences and Ambitions
The coach said his objective remains to win every match and reach six points to hold the lead before the long continental break. He also warned of several key omissions due to injuries or suspension: Ramadan Sobhi is suspended for doping-test irregularities; Osama Jalal, Mustafa Fathi, and Mohend Lashine are sidelined.
Ashamed by the rest of the squad, goalkeeper Ahmed Shennawy stressed that the tie won’t be easy, but Pyramids must play with the club’s traditional Africa-champion mindset, even away from home, to preserve the top spot in the group.
Diplomatic Support and Training Logistics
The fixture is part of Caf Champions League Group A; CAF adjusted training schedules ahead of the trip, and the main training session was moved to the venue on Thursday evening due to Zesco United’s Confederation Cup obligations at the same venue.
Egypt’s ambassador to Zambia, Meaad Essam, connected with the squad via video call to offer support, joined by sports secretary Hani Saeed and the coaching staff, underscoring the embassy’s backing. Deputy Ambassador Nader Shibl presented a commemorative gift to the team, while Hani Saeed handed over a Pyramids jersey to the deputy ambassador as a symbol of solidarity.
Shennawy concluded that the team is focused on a second win and continuing to lead Group A, with further duties in the continental schedule to come after the break.
Punchline 1: If Juric’s plan were a sniper, it would be a precise headshot—three points, every time, with no collateral damage.
Punchline 2: And if Power Dynamos manage to score, the stadium will have earned its own Olympic-level applause for surviving the drama without an intermission.
