Wiliete head coach Beto Bianchi has revealed the tactical approach his team used to frustrate Mamelodi Sundowns in Angola, where the sides played out a goalless draw in the first leg of their CAF Champions League second qualifying round tie.

The result left the contest finely balanced ahead of Friday’s return leg at Loftus Versfeld Stadium in Pretoria, with both teams seeking a place in the competition’s group stage.

Sundowns entered the tie as the defending champions and were expected to make a strong impression after receiving a bye in the first qualifying round. However, Wiliete managed to keep the South African side from finding the net in the opening encounter in Lubango.

Speaking at a pre-match press conference in Pretoria, Bianchi explained that his players understood the danger Sundowns posed, particularly when given space to attack.

“We started well and we knew that Mamelodi Sundowns is a very strong team and dangerous if you give them spaces,” the coach said.

The Brazilian tactician credited his team’s defensive organisation and the strategies they implemented during the first leg for limiting Sundowns’ scoring opportunities.

“We played well in Angola with good strategies. We closed their players well; we didn’t give them chances to score. We’re hoping to play the same,” Bianchi added.

Wiliete will now attempt to reproduce that disciplined performance in Pretoria, although Bianchi acknowledged that the return fixture would present a different challenge.

Playing away from home against Sundowns means Wiliete must adapt to the atmosphere and conditions at Loftus Versfeld, where the hosts will be looking to turn their attacking pressure into goals.

Despite the challenge ahead, Bianchi spoke positively about the reception his team received in Pretoria. He said Sundowns had been supportive during their visit, despite concerns surrounding relations between the two clubs.

“The welcome here in Pretoria, Mamelodi Sundowns have been very supportive,” he said.

However, he recognised that the match itself would be difficult, particularly because Wiliete would be playing in their opponents’ home environment.

Founded in 2018, the Angolan club are still seeking their first appearance in the CAF Champions League group stage. Progressing past Sundowns would represent a significant milestone in their continental campaign.

For Sundowns, the task is to find a way through Wiliete’s defensive structure and secure the result needed to advance. With the first leg ending 0-0, the return match will determine which side progresses to the group stage.

Bianchi’s comments suggest Wiliete intend to remain organised and restrict the spaces available to Sundowns as they pursue a historic qualification.

Source: https://x.com/kickoffmagazine/status/2113314498350137663?s=46