Wiliete SC head coach Roberto Bianchi has described his team’s elimination of Mamelodi Sundowns from the CAF Champions League as a major achievement in the Angolan club’s development, revealing that his side overcame significant challenges before the decisive encounter, including the absence of three players because of immigration issues.

According to a report by iDiski Times published on October 26, 2026, Bianchi explained that the problems occurred at OR Tambo International Airport in South Africa on the eve of the return leg. The setback affected the team’s preparations, leaving the coach without three players for the crucial match.

“The day before, we had immigration issues at OR Tambo, a few players, three players couldn’t make it to the game,” Bianchi said.

Despite the difficulties, Wiliete managed to secure qualification for the CAF Champions League group stage after holding Sundowns to a 1-1 draw at Loftus Versfeld in Pretoria on October 23. The result left the tie level at 1-1 on aggregate following a goalless first leg in Angola, with Wiliete progressing on the away-goals rule.

Sundowns initially took the lead through Tashreeq Matthews in the 11th minute, but Angolan striker Cristóvão Paciência, popularly known as Mabululu, equalised shortly after the interval. Wiliete then defended resolutely to preserve the result and eliminate the defending champions.

Bianchi said the victory was particularly meaningful because of the difference in stature between the two clubs. Wiliete, founded in 2018, have been gradually establishing themselves in Angolan football, and qualifying for the continental competition’s group stage represents a significant step forward.

The coach, however, cautioned against treating the achievement as the end of the club’s ambitions, stressing that qualification was only the beginning. He expressed hope that the result would boost his players’ confidence and help Wiliete earn greater recognition across African football.

https://x.com/iDiskiTimes/status/2114767957578355073