Wiliete SC head coach Beto Bianchi has praised his players for their disciplined defensive display after the Angolan side knocked Mamelodi Sundowns out of the CAF Champions League and reached the group stage for the first time in the club's history.

Wiliete drew 1-1 with Sundowns at Loftus Versfeld on Friday night and went through on away goals, after the first leg in Lubango ended goalless. The result was a heavy blow for the South African side, who started the tie as favourites.

Sundowns made a good start, with Tashreeq Matthews putting them ahead in the 11th minute. Wiliete hit back soon after the break. Cristóvão "Mabululu" Paciência took advantage of a mistake by Cassius Mailula to equalise in the 48th minute.

Sundowns controlled possession and had 18 shots to Wiliete's six, but they could not find another goal. The visitors stayed well organised at the back and held on until the final whistle.

Bianchi said he was delighted with the commitment of his players. He explained that they knew what was needed defensively against an experienced team like Sundowns. He praised them for sticking to the game plan, handling long spells of pressure and making the most of their chance in front of goal. The coach also said that winning on Sundowns' home ground made the achievement even more meaningful and marked an important step for the club this season.

For Sundowns, the exit raises tough questions, as it is their earliest Champions League elimination in 11 years. Chairman Tlhopie Motsepe has expressed disappointment and is reportedly expecting coach Miguel Cardoso to deliver success in the competitions still to come, including the FIFA Intercontinental Cup and the CAF Super Cup.

For Wiliete, the story is very different. Reaching the group stage for the first time is a major breakthrough, and it came through a disciplined performance that ended Sundowns' continental campaign before the group phase began.

https://www.idiskitimes.co.za/caf-champions-league/cardoso-it-was-a-big-punch-in-our-faces/