Mamelodi Sundowns name starting XI for CAF Champions League opener against Wiliete SC

African champions Mamelodi Sundowns begin their CAF Champions League title defence against Wiliete SC on Saturday evening, with Miguel Cardoso selecting his starting XI for the second preliminary-round tie.

The South African champions were given a bye through the first preliminary round after winning the competition last season.

Sundowns arrive in Angola in strong form after lifting the MTN8 title last weekend. They beat rivals Orlando Pirates 2-0 in the final before returning to league action on Tuesday.

The Brazilians strengthened their position at the top of the table with a 4-1 victory over Richards Bay.

Wiliete SC reached this stage after a convincing 5-0 aggregate win against Foresters last month. The Angolan side have also made an unbeaten start to their domestic campaign and currently lead the Girabola with five wins and one draw from six matches.

The match takes place on 18 October 2026.

Mamelodi Sundowns start with:

Goss, Ndamane, Khoza, Matuludi, Basadien, Mokoena, Allende, Santos, Matthews, Morena, Leon.

Their substitutes are:

Pieterse, Lunga, Rayners, Aubaas, Zwane, Cele, Van Wyk, Ndlovu, Mvala.