Wiliete SC’s experienced internationals inspire historic Mamelodi Sundowns upset

Wiliete SC head coach Roberto Bianchi says the experience of Mabululu and Gilberto was decisive as the Angolan club eliminated reigning African champions Mamelodi Sundowns from the CAF Champions League.

The result ranks among the biggest surprises in the competition and sends Wiliete SC into the group stage for the first time in their history. Founded in 2018, the club relied on the knowledge of two players accustomed to competing at international and continental level as they faced one of Africa’s leading sides.

Mabululu, who has won more than 50 caps for Angola, was particularly important in helping Wiliete’s younger players manage the occasion. The striker has also played in Egypt and Libya, giving him considerable experience of African football outside his home country.

“Mabululu is an experienced player, he knows African football, more than African football, international football because he is a player for the national team and he played abroad for the last couple of years,” Bianchi said.

“He’s really helped his teammates. This second half we had to change him, though, because of what happened. This boy we introduced in the match was from the youth team, it was the first time he played at this level.”

Mabululu lined up alongside Gilberto, whose appearance represented a memorable return to South Africa. The former Petro de Luanda player previously had an unsuccessful spell with Orlando Pirates in the South African top flight before returning to Angola.

Bianchi said the presence of players such as Mabululu and Gilberto gave the squad greater belief, particularly those making their first steps at the highest level.

“So this kind of players, these calibre of players as Mabululu and Gibela, they give confidence and help the young players of the team,” he concluded.

The coach’s assessment highlights the importance of experience for a relatively young club competing against established continental opposition. Wiliete SC’s progress now secures them a place in the CAF Champions League group stage for the first time since their formation.