Wiliete SC head coach Roberto Bianchi has praised the experience of Mabululu and Gilberto after the Angolan side eliminated Mamelodi Sundowns from the CAF Champions League. The coach believes the two players played an important role in helping the team compete against the reigning African champions and secure a historic place in the group stage.

Wiliete produced an impressive performance to knock Sundowns out of the competition on away goals after the two-legged tie ended 1-1 on aggregate. The result was a major achievement for the Angolan club, which will now participate in the CAF Champions League group stage for the first time in its history.

Bianchi believes having players with international experience has helped Wiliete handle the pressure of facing one of Africa’s most established clubs. He specifically highlighted Mabululu’s contribution, pointing to the striker’s experience with the Angolan national team and his time playing football outside his home country.

Mabululu has represented Angola more than 50 times and has gained valuable experience playing in Egypt and Libya. According to Bianchi, that background has helped him guide younger players in the Wiliete squad and give them confidence during important matches.

“Mabululu is an experienced player, he knows African football, more than African football, international football because he is a player for the national team and he played abroad for the last couple of years,” Bianchi said.

The coach also explained that Mabululu had to be substituted in the second half because of what happened during the match. His replacement was a young player from the club’s youth team, who was making his first appearance at that level.

Bianchi also praised Gilberto, who played alongside Mabululu in the attacking department. The former Petro de Luanda player returned to South African football after a difficult spell with Orlando Pirates, and his experience proved valuable as Wiliete faced Sundowns.

“So this kind of players, these calibre of players as Mabululu and Gilberto, they give confidence and help the young players of the team,” Bianchi added.

The coach’s comments highlight the importance of experienced players in a team that is still building its reputation in African football. Wiliete were founded in 2018, making their qualification for the group stage a significant milestone in the club’s development.

Their elimination of Sundowns has given the Angolan side an opportunity to test themselves against some of the continent’s leading clubs. With Mabululu and Gilberto providing experience and guidance, Wiliete will hope to continue making progress in the competition.

Source : IDiskiTimes