Mamelodi Sundowns' head coach Miguel Cardoso has acknowledged that the team's early exit from the CAF Champions League is a significant failure, taking shared responsibility after the defending champions were eliminated by Angolan club Wiliete SC.

The Brazilians were knocked out on Friday, October 23, following a 1-1 draw at Loftus Versfeld. After a goalless first leg, Wiliete advanced to the group stage based on the away-goals rule, delivering a heavy blow to Sundowns' title defense.

In his post-match remarks, Cardoso did not shy away from expressing his disappointment, firmly stating that the outcome was a collective failure involving everyone connected to the team. 

“Indeed, it’s a failure for all of us. We must take responsibility—coaches, players, and everyone else,” the Portuguese coach remarked.

He elaborated that Sundowns dominated significant portions of the game and had several chances to qualify, but their failure to capitalize on these opportunities ultimately let them down. 

“I want to emphasize that this is indeed a failure. We controlled the match, but we simply did not convert the chances we created near the goal,” he said.

Sundowns began well, with Tashreeq Matthews scoring in the 11th minute with a deflected shot, putting them in a strong position to advance. However, they failed to extend their lead.

Wiliete took advantage of a defensive error early in the second half when striker Mabululu scored to equalize. The visitors then defended tightly as Sundowns pressed for a winning goal.

Despite making attacking substitutions, Cardoso’s team was unable to find the decisive goal, marking the first time since 2015 that Sundowns had not progressed to the Champions League group stage.

The coach recognized the disappointment but emphasized the importance of responding positively instead of letting this defeat overshadow the rest of the season. Sundowns have domestic competitions ahead and will be expected to bounce back swiftly.

Their next focus will be on the Carling Knockout, where they are set to play against Marumo Gallants. Cardoso hopes his players can use this setback as motivation to improve their finishing and enhance their overall performances.

For Sundowns, this loss is a notable setback, but the coach’s message is clear: the responsibility is shared, and the team must collectively work towards a positive response.

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