Ex-Egypt star 'convinced' Pyramids strike against Orlando Pirates 'was valid goal' - 'Mbekezeli Mbokazi didn't intend it'

Orlando Pirates were paired against Pyramids FC in the Caf Champions League semi-final.

It was the first time in history that the two teams were meeting in the prestigious continental competitions.

The fixture was also a massive test for the Premier Soccer League heavyweights who haven't tasted defeat this season.

In the first leg played at the Orlando Stadium last weekend, the Egyptian outfit looked solid from the first whistle.

They thought Fiston Mayele had given them a goal when he pounced on a header from Mbekezeli Mbokazi before finding the back of the net, only for his goal to be ruled out.

The second one, late into the game, was also ruled out for a handball.

Ex-Pharaohs international Ahmed Shobir has now supported the referees despite feeling the Mayele strike was legitimate.

"Pyramids scored two goals against Orlando, the second goal was a handball, no debate about that, but the first goal is the one that is controversial," he told Sports FM.

"I spoke with our referee colleagues, and they all told me the goal is not valid because the defender did not intend it.

"They also told me that the law has been amended, even though I was convinced it was a valid goal," Shobir continued.

"This is what some referees said, and they also mentioned that the referee should not have gone to VAR, and when the referee went, he was convinced by the VAR's opinion and disallowed the goal."

"Pyramids were so close, scored, and missed several goals, and Orlando also caused some troubles for Pyramids, but I have a feeling that Pyramids will settle the match here, but in the end, it is a difficult match and a very tough match as well," he concluded.

A win of any kind in Egypt or a scoring draw will see the Buccaneers through.

However, the hosts will want to capitalise on the home-ground advantage to get the result they need to set up a final against either Mamelodi Sundowns or Al Ahly.