Defending champions Pyramids FC began their title defence in emphatic fashion thanks to a sensational hat-trick from in-form striker Ahmed Atef El Sayed, whose match-winning performance against Rivers United has earned him the CAF Interclub Player of the Week award.

Atef, 26, delivered one of the standout individual displays of Matchday 1 as Pyramids powered to a 3–0 victory in Cairo to open their Group A campaign in the TotalEnergies CAF Champions League.

His three expertly taken goals showcased the full range of his finishing quality and underlined why he has become a central figure in Pyramids’ bid for back-to-back African crowns.

After a tight first half in which Rivers United defended resolutely, Atef broke the deadlock in the 52nd minute.

The striker reacted sharply inside the six-yard area to steer home from close range following sustained pressure—an important breakthrough that settled Pyramids and shifted momentum firmly their way.

Only five minutes later, he doubled his tally with the pick of the goals: a towering header into the top-right corner after a pinpoint delivery from Karim Hafez.

His movement between the centre-backs and the precision of the finish highlighted his growing maturity as a penalty-box striker.

Atef completed his hat-trick on 72 minutes with another clinical effort, this time guiding a composed right-footed strike into the bottom-left corner from a Mohamed Reda assist. 

The reigning African champions controlled the final stages with authority, but it was Atef’s brilliance that defined the evening and put Pyramids level at the top of Group A alongside RS Berkane.

His three goals not only delivered a perfect start for his club but also reaffirmed his rising profile on the continent.

As Pyramids chase history this season, Atef looks set to be at the heart of their ambitions.

Atef will be crucial when Pyramids travel to face Power Dynamos in their second match of the group on Saturday.