The 2024/25 TotalEnergies CAF Champions League semi-final lineup is complete after a gripping quarter-final stage, featuring dominant performances, historic milestones, and the promise of two high-stakes Egypt vs. South Africa duels.
Historic North vs South Matchups
For the first time in the competition’s modern era, both Egypt and South Africa have two representatives each in the semi-finals — setting the stage for a pair of heavyweight clashes between North and Southern Africa.
Al Ahly vs. Mamelodi Sundowns: A Rivalry Renewed
Reigning champions Al Ahly moved one step closer to a record-extending 13th title, dispatching Al Hilal of Sudan 2-0 on aggregate. The Cairo giants now face familiar foes Mamelodi Sundowns, who edged past Tunisia’s Esperance 1-0 over two legs in a tightly contested affair.
This semi-final marks yet another chapter in what has become a fierce modern rivalry between the two sides, with recent years producing epic encounters on the continent's biggest stage.
Orlando Pirates Return, Pyramids Make History
On the other side of the bracket, Orlando Pirates secured their first semi-final appearance since 2013, holding MC Alger to a goalless draw in Johannesburg after a 1-0 away win in Algiers.
Their opponents will be Pyramids FC, who reached the semi-finals for the first time ever. Despite a 2-0 loss in the second leg to FAR Rabat, their commanding 4-1 victory in the first leg was enough to book their place with a 4-3 aggregate score.
Semi-Final Fixtures:
First Leg – 18/19 April 2025:
Orlando Pirates (RSA) vs Pyramids FC (EGY)
Mamelodi Sundowns (RSA) vs Al Ahly SC (EGY)
Second Leg – 25/26 April 2025:
Pyramids FC (EGY) vs Orlando Pirates (RSA)
Al Ahly SC (EGY) vs Mamelodi Sundowns (RSA)
With a final berth on the line, the continent awaits two weeks of high-octane action as the North and South battle for supremacy.
From Rabah Madjer to Mohamed Salah, a look at the MENA players who’ve made history in the Champions League — and those ready to add their names.