Mamelodi Sundowns have been knocked out of the CAF Champions League after Angolan side Wiliete SC held them to a 1-1 draw at Loftus Versfeld on Friday night. The result means Wiliete progress on the away goals rule following a goalless first leg in Lubango.

Sundowns, the defending champions, went ahead early through Tashreeq Matthews. His shot from outside the box took a deflection and found the net after just 11 minutes. The home side looked comfortable and created more chances before the break, but they could not add a second goal.

Wiliete fought back after half-time. Angola international Mabululu equalised four minutes into the second half after a mistake in the Sundowns defence. From that moment, the visitors defended with discipline and refused to let Sundowns break them down again. Despite pressure from the home team, including efforts from Brayan León, Wiliete held firm until the final whistle.

The aggregate score finished 1-1, but because Wiliete scored the only away goal of the tie, they advance to the group stages for the first time in their history. For Sundowns, it is a painful exit. This is the first time since 2015 that the Brazilians have failed to reach the group phase of Africa’s top club competition.

The shock result ends Sundowns’ title defence before the group stages even begin. Coach Miguel Cardoso’s side had been in strong form domestically, but they struggled to find a way past a determined Wiliete team over two legs. The Angolans, who reached the second preliminary round after an earlier win, showed organisation and belief throughout the tie.

Sundowns now turn their focus back to the Betway Premiership and other competitions, while Wiliete prepare for the group stage draw. The match at Loftus Versfeld will be remembered as one of the biggest upsets of the early rounds in this year’s CAF Champions League.

Source: https://x.com/iDiskiTimes/status/2113720502229324024