The highly anticipated FIFA Challenger Cup semifinal between Flamengo vs Pyramids FC is scheduled for Saturday, December 13, 2025, at 12:00 PM ET (8:00 PM local time).
Hosted at Ahmad Bin Ali Stadium in Al-Rayyan, Qatar, this matchup features the Copa Libertadores champions Flamengo, fresh off a 2-1 victory over Cruz Azul in the Derby of the Americas, against the CAF Champions League winners Pyramids FC, who advanced with convincing wins over Auckland City and Al Ahli.
The winner advances to the 2025 FIFA Intercontinental Cup Final against Paris Saint-Germain on December 17.
Flamengo enters riding high after Giorgian de Arrascaeta’s brace secured their progression, capping a dominant year with the Brasileirão title.
No major injuries reported post-Cruz Azul, though coach Filipe Luís may rotate slightly to manage fatigue from the Qatar trip. The squad’s depth, highlighted by recent domestic success, positions them as favorites in this neutral-venue test.
Pyramids FC has impressed with a 3-0 win over Auckland City and a 3-1 triumph against Al Ahli, powered by Fiston Mayele’s hat-trick.
The Egyptian side reports no significant absences, with coach Pitso Mosimane emphasizing defensive resilience and quick counters. Their run showcases attacking potency, but facing Flamengo’s flair will be their sternest challenge yet.
Flamengo vs Pyramids Match Preview – Date, Time and Team news
Table of Contents
In the 2025 FIFA Intercontinental Cup’s Challenger Cup at Ahmad Bin Ali Stadium, Flamengo’s technical superiority and recent momentum clash with Pyramids’ organized defense and clinical finishing.
The Brazilians seek a spot in the final against PSG, while Pyramids aim for an African upset. Expect Flamengo to control possession, but Pyramids’ transitions could exploit gaps in a potentially high-scoring semifinal.
Team News and Analysis
Flamengo is at full strength following their Derby win, with Luís likely sticking to a fluid 4-2-3-1 to unleash wing play. Their unbeaten run in eight away games provides confidence on the artificial pitch.
Pyramids FC enjoys a healthy roster, with Mosimane focusing on a compact 4-3-3 to absorb pressure. Mayele’s form (3 goals in the tournament) bolsters their attack, though Flamengo’s midfield dominance will test their resolve.
Head-to-Head Record
Flamengo and Pyramids FC meet for the first time in competitive play, with no prior encounters. Flamengo’s global experience gives them an edge in this inaugural matchup.
| Date | Competition | Result | Venue |
|---|---|---|---|
| N/A | N/A | No previous meetings | N/A |
Flamengo vs Pyramids Predicted XI Lineups
- Flamengo Predicted XI (4-2-3-1): Rossi; Varela, Ortiz, Leo Pereira, Alex Sandro; Pulgar, Jorginho; Lino, de Arrascaeta, Carrascal; Henrique.
This lineup builds on their Cruz Azul success, with de Arrascaeta central to creativity.
- Pyramids FC Predicted XI (4-3-3): El Shenawy; Marei, Galal, Abdelmonem, Hany; Fathy, Elneny, Naguib; El Karti, Mayele, Hamdy.
Pyramids’ setup prioritizes midfield steel with Elneny, feeding Mayele upfront.
Key Players
For Flamengo, Giorgian de Arrascaeta (brace vs Cruz Azul, 8 goals/12 assists this season) is the maestro, while Bruno Henrique’s pace and Leo Pereira’s defending are vital.
Pyramids FC hinges on Fiston Mayele (hat-trick vs Al Ahli, tournament top scorer with 3 goals) and Walid El Karti for midfield drive, with Mohamed El Shenawy’s shot-stopping key.
Flamengo vs Pyramids Match Prediction
Flamengo is predicted to win 2-1, leveraging their quality and momentum against Pyramids’ grit, with a 65% victory chance. Expect over 2.5 goals in an open, attacking contest that could extend to extra time.
Where to watch Flamengo vs Pyramids FIFA Intercontinental Cup match
In the USA, the Flamengo vs Pyramids FC match airs live on ESPN at 12:00 PM ET, with streaming on ESPN+ and FIFA+. Coverage includes analysis, and highlights on FIFA’s YouTube channel or MLSsoccer.com.
