With Mamelodi Sundowns going into the CAF Champions League second leg on the back foot as they had conceded an away goal, it was vital they scored first in Cairo on Sunday.
Enter Pyramids striker Fiston Mayele. The 30-year-old Congolese forward struck in the 23rd minute at 30 June Stadium, which effectively put the contest out of reach for the Betway Premiership champions.
Though the aggregate at that stage was 2-1 to Pyramids, it meant Sundowns had to score twice to come away victorious.
As Pyramids doubled their lead in the second half with Ahmed Samy, it didn’t actually change anything as two goals would still be needed for the SA outfit. Iqraam Rayners did pull a goal back with a quarter of an hour remaining, but there would be no further change to the scoreline as Pyramids ran out victors.
Kaizer Chiefs’ Pursuit of Mayele: A South African Football Saga
It meant that first strike from Mayele proved pivotal, and his story has a distinctly South African flavour. Kaizer Chiefs have been attempting to acquire the services of Mayele.
According to SABC Sport, Mayele may just be making a move down South as he’s already spoken to Chiefs coach Nasreddine Nabi.
“My focus is on the team and helping Pyramids win the final, and after the final, everyone is free to talk and speculate. Nasreddine Nabi was in contact with me in December, but now is not the moment to talk about it,” said Mayele ahead of the final.
The career of Mayele is rather interesting, as he only began his journey as a professional footballer in 2019 at the relatively advanced age of 24 when he signed for AS Vita Club in Congo.
Mayele has also made over 25 appearances for his national team, and following the Champions League final – his price tag may have just sky-rocketed and the AmaKhosi might have to break the bank if they really want to sign the player.
@Michael_Sherman
IOL Sport
