The stage is set for a captivating clash between Asian champions Al-Ahli and African champions Pyramids FC in the FIFA African-Asian-Pacific Cup at the King Abdullah Sports City Stadium in Jeddah on Tuesday, September 23, 2025, at 18:00 GMT (21:00 local time).
This historic encounter represents the second round of the 2025 FIFA Intercontinental Cup and marks a crucial step toward the ultimate prize – a showdown with Paris Saint-Germain in December.
The winner advances to face either Cruz Azul or the CONMEBOL Libertadores champion in the FIFA Challenger Cup on December 13, with the ultimate prize being a showdown against Paris Saint-Germain on December 17.
For Al Ahli vs Pyramids, both clubs, this represents their biggest match in history and an opportunity to etch their names in global football folklore.
As defender Osama Jalal stated after Pyramids’ Auckland victory: “Our ambition has grown since winning Africa—PSG would be a huge motivation, but we have to take it step by step.” That step-by-step approach now faces its ultimate test against Asian champions Al-Ahli in what promises to be a captivating encounter between two hungry, ambitious clubs ready to announce themselves on the world stage.
Al Ahli vs Pyramids FIFA Intercontinental Cup 2025
Table of Contents
Match Details:
- Date: Tuesday, September 23, 2025
- Time: 21:00 (local) / 18:00 GMT
- Venue: King Abdullah Sports City Stadium, Jeddah
- Competition: FIFA African-Asian-Pacific Cup (FIFA Intercontinental Cup 2025)
- Live Stream: FIFA+ and FIFA.com
- Final Score – Pyramids FC 3-1 Al Ahli
The 2025 FIFA Intercontinental Cup brings together continental champions in a knockout format, with the winner facing Paris Saint-Germain (UEFA Champions League winners) in the final on December 17, 2025.
This match determines who advances to the FIFA Challenger Cup semi-final stage, with the victor set to face either Cruz Azul (CONCACAF Champions Cup winners) or the CONMEBOL Libertadores champion for a place in the showpiece final.
Tournament Structure:
- African-Asian-Pacific Cup Play-off: Pyramids 3-0 Auckland City (completed)
- African-Asian-Pacific Cup Final: Al-Ahli vs Pyramids (September 23)
- Derby of the Americas: Cruz Azul vs CONMEBOL winner (December 10)
- FIFA Challenger Cup: Winners face off (December 13)
- Intercontinental Cup Final: vs Paris Saint-Germain (December 17)
Al-Ahli: Asian Champions Seeking Global Glory
Al-Ahli Saudi FC enters this contest as the 2024-25 AFC Champions League Elite winners, having claimed their first continental crown with a commanding campaign. The Jeddah-based club will enjoy the significant advantage of playing at their home venue, the King Abdullah Sports City Stadium, where they’ll be backed by passionate local support.
Recent Form and Squad Status:
- Recent Results: Drew 3-3 with Al-Hilal, won 4-2 against Nasaf Qarshi
- Key Strengths: Strong defensive organization and clinical finishing
- Home Advantage: Playing at the familiar King Abdullah Sports City
- Squad Fitness: No reported injury concerns ahead of the crucial clash
The Saudi giants will be motivated by the opportunity to become the first Asian club to reach the FIFA Intercontinental Cup final since the tournament’s relaunch in 2024.
Pyramids FC: African Champions with Momentum
Pyramids FC arrives in Jeddah with confidence after their impressive 3-0 victory over Auckland City in the African-Asian-Pacific Cup play-off on September 14 at Cairo’s 30 June Stadium. The Egyptian champions dominated proceedings with goals from Walid El Karti (14′), Marwan Hamdi (74′), and Mustafa Ziko (85′), showcasing the attacking prowess that helped them claim the CAF Champions League title.
Key Performance Indicators from Auckland Victory:
- Dominant possession: Controlled the tempo throughout
- Clinical finishing: Three different goalscorers demonstrated squad depth
- Defensive solidity: Clean sheet against determined Oceania champions
- Professional approach: Managed the game expertly after taking the lead
| Metric | Al-Ahli | Pyramids FC |
|---|---|---|
| Continental Title | AFC Champions League Elite 2024-25 | CAF Champions League 2024-25 |
| Tournament Debut | Yes | Yes |
| Home Advantage | Playing in Jeddah | Neutral venue |
| Current Form | Mixed recent results | Won 3-0 vs Auckland City |
| Key Players Available | Full squad | Missing M. Marei, M. Fathi |
Tactical Analysis and Key Battles
Al-Ahli’s Approach
The Saudi champions are expected to leverage their home advantage and physicality to unsettle Pyramids’ rhythm. Their success in the AFC Champions League came from solid defensive foundations and quick transitions, particularly effective against technically gifted opponents.
Key Tactical Elements:
- High pressing to disrupt Pyramids’ build-up play
- Wing play utilization to stretch the Egyptian defense
- Set-piece threats from experienced dead-ball specialists
- Counter-attacking opportunities from defensive stability
Pyramids FC’s Strategy
The African champions demonstrated in their Auckland victory that they can control possession and create multiple scoring opportunities. Their Brazilian influences, particularly through Ewerton’s creativity, provide the technical quality to unlock organized defenses.
Key Tactical Elements:
- Possession-based approach to dictate tempo
- Brazilian flair through technical players like Ewerton
- Aerial threat from set-pieces with strong headers like Hamdi
- Squad rotation utilizing bench strength effectively
Player Spotlight: Key Men to Watch in Al Ahli vs Pyramids
Walid El Karti (Pyramids FC)
The midfielder opened his FIFA Intercontinental Cup account with a crisp finish against Auckland City and will be crucial in Pyramids’ build-up play. His work rate and technical ability make him the heartbeat of the Egyptian champions’ midfield.
Marwan Hamdi (Pyramids FC)
The forward demonstrated his aerial prowess with a thumping header in the Auckland victory. His movement in the box and finishing ability pose a constant threat to opposing defenses.
Mustafa “Ziko” (Pyramids FC)
The substitute striker made an immediate impact against Auckland with an assured curled finish. His pace and direct running provide Pyramids with a different attacking dimension off the bench
Al Ahli vs Pyramids Venue and Atmosphere
The massive venue in Jeddah will provide an intimidating atmosphere for Pyramids, with Al-Ahli’s passionate fanbase expected to create a cauldron of noise. The evening kickoff should provide optimal playing conditions in the Saudi desert climate.
King Abdullah Sports City Stadium, Jeddah
- Capacity: 62,345
- Surface: Natural grass
- Kickoff: 21:00 local time (18:00 GMT)
- Climate: Expected temperature around 28°C with low humidity
Historical Context and Stakes
This match represents more than just a path to the semi-final – it’s a clash between two emerging football nations seeking to establish themselves on the global stage.
Saudi Arabia’s massive investment in football infrastructure meets Egypt’s traditional football heritage in a contest that could define both clubs’ legacies.
Tournament Significance:
- First FIFA Intercontinental Cup appearance for both clubs
- Chance to face PSG in the final represents ultimate glory
- Continental pride at stake between AFC and CAF representatives
- Financial rewards and global recognition for the winner
Injury Updates and Team News
Al-Ahli: No significant injury concerns reported. The squad has had adequate preparation time and benefits from playing at their home venue with familiar surroundings.
Pyramids FC: Missing Mahmoud Marei (injury) and Mostafa Fathi (injury), but their squad depth was evident in the commanding Auckland victory. Coach Krunoslav Jurčić has multiple tactical options available.
Al Ahli vs Pyramids Prediction and Betting Insights
This encounter promises to be closely contested, with Al-Ahli’s home advantage potentially balanced by Pyramids’ recent competitive rhythm and momentum from their Auckland victory. The evening kickoff should suit both teams’ playing styles, with technical quality likely proving decisive.
Key Factors:
- Home support could energize Al-Ahli
- Match sharpness favours the Pyramids after recent competitive action
- Experience in pressure situations will be crucial
- Tactical flexibility could determine the outcome
