Impressive Gallants ready to continue African adventure against Pyramids

Bahlabane Ba Ntwa have found the going tough in the DStv Premiership this season, in stark contrast to their African exploits in the CAF Confed Cup, where they have made it all the way to the knock-out stages after topping Group A with a series of impressive performances.

However, buoyed by their African exploits, they have also shown improved form in the PSL of late, earning nine points from their last 15 to move two points clear of the relegation zone.

Despite their impressive run up to this point, Marumo face a tough opponent in Egyptian side Pyramids, who reached the semi-finals of the Confederation Cup in the last three seasons and lost to RS Berkane of Morocco in the 2019/20 final.

The Egyptian heavyweights also have Bafana Bafana international Fagrie Lakay on their books.

While Pyramids are certainly favourites in this tie due to their pedigree, Marumo midfielder Lucky Mohomi believes their underdog status could count in their favour.

"I believe we have a good and strong enough team to go all the way to the final. We are going to surprise many. We're taking the tag of being the underdogs because that's what people are saying, but we really believe we are capable of beating any team in this tournament. We are in the quarterfinals because we deserve it, it is not by fluke that we are here," Mohomi told Sowetan prior to their departure for Cairo yesterday.

"If Pyramids also come with the mentality that we are the underdogs and they'll have it easy against us, they won't know what hits them. We are strong and ready for any challenge in this competition."

Following Sunday's first leg in Egypt, Marumo have the advantage of playing the second leg at home thanks to being Group A winners.

The Limpopo outfit has never lost at home in the Confederation Cup having played eight games, winning seven matches and drawing one.

The return fixture will take place on Sunday, April 30.

The winner on aggregate between coach Dylan Kerr's side and Pyramids will take on either Rivers United or Young Africans in the semi-finals next month.