Mamelodi Sundowns face stern Wiliete test in CAF Champions League title defence

Mamelodi Sundowns begin their CAF Champions League campaign against an unbeaten Wiliete side who have shown both defensive strength and attacking threat in Angola’s Girabola.

The defending champions travel to Angola for Sunday’s preliminary-round first leg, with the club confirming that the squad will make the journey on a chartered plane.

Wiliete currently lead the Girabola standings after collecting 16 points from their opening six matches. They have yet to lose this season and have conceded only twice in the league.

Their home defensive record is even stronger: Wiliete are yet to concede a league goal on their own ground this campaign.

They have also scored 13 times, underlining the threat they pose at both ends of the pitch. Their attack includes experienced Angolan striker Mabululu, who has the quality to cause problems for the Sundowns defence.

Mabululu and Gilberto threats

The 34-year-old Mabululu has won 40 caps for Angola and scored three goals across the two legs of Wiliete’s previous Champions League tie against Foresters from Seychelles.

His form in that tie makes him one of the players Sundowns will need to monitor closely as they begin their attempt to retain the continental title.

Wiliete also have former Orlando Pirates winger Gilberto in their squad. His familiarity with Sundowns and experience of South African football could add another dimension to the Angolan side’s attacking play.

The winger’s pace and ability to take on defenders mean Sundowns will need to limit the space available to him, particularly in wide areas.

Sundowns face the challenge of starting their title defence with an away fixture against opponents who have made an unbeaten start domestically and have been difficult to break down.

However, their recent success in the MTN8 and the African-Asian Pacific Cup may have given them the confidence required to overcome Wiliete and progress from the tie.