Pyramids FC achieved a crucial away win against El Merriekh Bentiu from South Sudan, with Mahmoud Saber scoring in the 30th minute.

The victory, however, came with challenges as key defenders Mahmoud Marei and Iyad Al-Asqalani will miss the return leg due to suspensions.

Marei received a second yellow card, while Al-Asqalani was cautioned for the third time this season.

Despite these setbacks, Pyramids hold a one-goal advantage heading back to Cairo after eliminating Gor Mahia with a 7-1 aggregate score in the previous round. El Merriekh Bentiu also performed well, defeating Somalia’s Heegan FC 4-0 on aggregate.

The return fixture will take place at the Air Defence Stadium in Cairo on October 24. The winners will progress to the group stage of Africa’s top club competition, starting at the end of November.