Wiliete SC stun Mamelodi Sundowns to reach Champions League groups

Wiliete SC coach Beto Bianchi hailed his team’s defensive organisation after the Angolan club eliminated reigning African champions Mamelodi Sundowns on away goals to reach the CAF Champions League group stage for the first time.

Wiliete held Sundowns to a 1-1 draw at Loftus Versfeld on Friday night, sending the tie through at 1-1 on aggregate after the first leg in Lubango ended goalless.

The hosts took the lead in the 11th minute when Tashreeq Matthews found the net, but Wiliete responded shortly after half-time. Cristovao “Mabululu” Paciencia equalised in the 48th minute following a defensive mistake by Cassius Mailula.

Sundowns controlled much of the match and created the greater number of chances, registering 18 shots to Wiliete’s six. However, they were unable to score the goal that would have taken them through.

Bianchi said his players had anticipated a difficult evening against a side of Sundowns’ quality and were prepared to defend for long periods.

“I want to congratulate my players, it’s not everyday you beat Mamelodi in their home turf, it was evident they would dominate possession at home, when it comes to defending in a low block, we did very well,” Bianchi said.

The Wiliete coach accepted that his side had been under significant pressure but said they had taken advantage of their decisive opportunity.

“They had many opportunities, goal scoring opportunities, but this is football – we just take the one shot we did and we are qualified now, that’s the most important thing for us.”

The result represents a major setback for Sundowns, who have reached the group stage in each of the past 11 seasons. Their defeat also brings their title defence to an end before the group phase has started.

Wiliete’s qualification delivers the principal objective set for the campaign when Bianchi was appointed. Before the tie, he had identified the challenge clearly, saying: “we have to eliminate Sundowns.”

The build-up to the second leg had been overshadowed by an alleged altercation involving Bianchi and Sundowns assistant coach Steve Komphela after the first match. Bianchi was taken away in an ambulance following that game.

Wiliete’s result ensures the focus now returns to their achievement on the pitch, as they secure a place among the teams competing in the CAF Champions League group stage.