Bentiu Must Chase Down Pyramids in Cairo

EL Merriekh Bentiu arrive in Cairo with a difficult task: a 1-0 defeat in the first leg, played in Bentiu, means they must win this CAF Champions League second preliminary round tie at the 30 June Stadium just to level the aggregate score.

What progressing means

For Pyramids FC, the job is simpler. They carry a one-goal advantage into the return match, so a draw would be enough to put them through. That allows them to play with control, keeping their shape and waiting for chances rather than chasing the game. For Bentiu, anything less than a win takes them out of the competition, and even a win only forces the tie level, leaving them with no margin for error.

Form

Pyramids have started their season well. They have won all three matches, scoring eight goals and conceding only one in their last three outings. Their home record has been strong, with five goals scored in their one home game, although their wins have come mainly away from Cairo.

Bentiu have also won two of their three matches, but they have been less prolific, managing four goals in that run. Their one loss came at home, and they have been more vulnerable away from Bentiu on the scoreline than their results suggest.

Head-to-head

The sides have met once this season in this competition. Pyramids took the single goal in Bentiu on 16 October, a 1-0 win that gives them the advantage heading into the return leg.

Our prediction

This tie looks set to be tight and cagey. Pyramids have the stronger record in front of goal and the greater reason to protect what they have built, so they should be the more comfortable side on the night. Bentiu will need to push forward and take risks, which could open spaces, but Pyramids’ defensive discipline and experience in these situations should be enough to see them through without too much drama.

Pyramids FC 2-0 EL Merriekh Bentiu