Mamelodi Sundowns knocked out of CAF Champions League by Wiliete SC

Mamelodi Sundowns’ defence of the CAF Champions League title ended on Friday as Wiliete SC advanced on the away-goal rule after a 1-1 draw in the second leg.

The result left the aggregate score at 1-1, but the Angolan side progressed after scoring away from home to eliminate the reigning champions.

Sundowns had been held to a goalless draw in Sunday’s first meeting and faced another demanding contest at home against a Wiliete team determined to produce an upset.

The hosts made an assertive start and came close inside the opening five minutes. Thabang Matuludi met Aubrey Modiba’s corner with a powerful header, but his effort missed the target.

Sundowns did not have to wait much longer for the breakthrough. Six minutes later, Tashreeq Matthews collected the ball near the edge of the area and saw his long-range effort take a deflection off the Wiliete defence before finding the net.

Wiliete responded positively after falling behind and almost levelled when former Orlando Pirates winger Gilberto rose to meet a cross. His header appeared destined for the corner, but Ronwen Williams made a last-ditch save to preserve Sundowns’ lead.

The home side nearly doubled its advantage just before half-time. Brayan Leon broke through the defence and created room for a shot inside the area, although the Colombian could not beat goalkeeper Elber Delgado.

Wiliete strike back

Sundowns’ advantage disappeared shortly after the restart following a mistake in their defensive third. A loose pass fell to Mabululu, who raced through on goal before calmly placing his finish beyond Williams to make it 1-1.

The South African champions looked for an immediate response, but Delgado kept Wiliete in control with an outstanding double save. The goalkeeper denied successive efforts from Matthews and Leon as Sundowns pushed for another goal.

With the score level, Sundowns turned to their substitutes in an effort to regain the lead. Siyanda Ndlovu replaced Cassius Mailula as the home side searched for a way through.

Ndlovu, who has settled well since joining the club, almost made an instant impact. The former Golden Arrows player struck a powerful volley from the edge of the penalty area, but Delgado smothered the attempt.

Sundowns continued to press in search of the goal that would have kept their title defence alive. Wiliete, however, remained composed under pressure and held on to secure a notable result.

The 1-1 draw was enough to send the Angolan outfit through on away goals and bring Sundowns’ CAF Champions League campaign to an end.