Pyramids FC and Orlando Pirates were forced to share the spoils after a 0-0 draw in a CAF Champions League Cup semifinals clash that had fans on the edge of their seats from start to finish.

Despite the absence of goals on the scoresheet, the encounter was anything but dull. Pyramids FC found the net in both halves, only to be denied on each occasion by the ever-watchful eye of VAR.

The first major talking point arrived midway through the first half when Fiston Mayele thought he had given the home side the lead after coolly slotting past the Pirates goalkeeper. However, celebrations were cut short as VAR flagged the striker for a marginal offside, much to the frustration of the Egyptian outfit.

The second half saw the tempo rise even further, with both sides creating chances in a fiercely contested midfield battle. Pyramids once again believed they had broken the deadlock when a cross deflected off Awolujoola and into the net. But once again, VAR intervened—this time correctly ruling out the goal for handball, as replays showed the ball had struck Awujoola’s arm before crossing the line.

As the game wore on, both teams pushed for a winner. Pirates came close on a few occasions but were met with resolute defending from the hosts. Pyramids, too, had their opportunities but were thwarted by a combination of poor finishing and disciplined defending from the South African side.

Ultimately, the final whistle confirmed a goalless draw, but the drama and tension that unfolded told a story far beyond the scoreline. With both teams still in the hunt for qualification, the return leg promises to be just as explosive.