Pyramids of Egypt won the African Champions League on Sunday. The team beat Mamelodi Sundowns from South Africa with a 3-2 total score across both games. Croatian coach Krunoslav Jurcic led the team to victory. The club still fights for respect against bigger Cairo teams Al Ahly and Zamalek. This marks just the second major trophy for Pyramids.
Jurcic says competing against Al Ahly remains very hard. The 55-year-old coach calls Al Ahly the best team across all of Africa. His team played great football last season but could not win the domestic league. Cairo fans usually support Al Ahly or Zamalek instead of other local clubs. Most Pyramids games happen with empty stadiums.
The final drew 30,000 fans to June 30 Stadium on Sunday. Jurcic felt grateful for the crowd support during the 2-1 second leg win. Players usually arrive 90 minutes early to find no fans waiting. The coach works hard to keep his team motivated despite the lack of support. He jumps around the sideline and encourages players throughout each match.
The former Croatia player helped his country finish third at the 1998 World Cup. Jurcic believes his energy helps the team compete better. He thinks Pyramids can challenge the top Egyptian teams going forward. The coach remains unsure if the team can stay strong over time. Future success depends on continued growth and fan support.
Jurcic says competing against Al Ahly remains very hard. The 55-year-old coach calls Al Ahly the best team across all of Africa. His team played great football last season but could not win the domestic league. Cairo fans usually support Al Ahly or Zamalek instead of other local clubs. Most Pyramids games happen with empty stadiums.
The final drew 30,000 fans to June 30 Stadium on Sunday. Jurcic felt grateful for the crowd support during the 2-1 second leg win. Players usually arrive 90 minutes early to find no fans waiting. The coach works hard to keep his team motivated despite the lack of support. He jumps around the sideline and encourages players throughout each match.
The former Croatia player helped his country finish third at the 1998 World Cup. Jurcic believes his energy helps the team compete better. He thinks Pyramids can challenge the top Egyptian teams going forward. The coach remains unsure if the team can stay strong over time. Future success depends on continued growth and fan support.
