Wiliete stun Mamelodi Sundowns to end CAF Champions League title defence

Mamelodi Sundowns have been eliminated from the CAF Champions League after a 1-1 draw with Angolan side Wiliete at Loftus Versfeld, ending their title defence before the group stage.

The result saw Wiliete progress on the away goals rule and ended Sundowns’ run of qualifying for the group stage in each of the past 11 seasons. It is the first time in more than a decade that the South African side have suffered an exit at this stage.

Sundowns went into Friday’s second leg with the expectation of completing the job, but were unable to turn their control of the match into the goals they needed. Wiliete’s away goal ultimately proved decisive in the final group stage qualifier.

The hosts made the ideal start when Tashreeq Matthews’ effort took a deflection off Arao Wiwi and found the net. With the advantage secured, Sundowns relied on Marcelo Allende to control the tempo as they attempted to manage the game.

Despite their possession and territorial dominance, the Brazilians could not add a second goal. Ronwen Williams was also required to make an important save before half-time, ensuring Sundowns went into the interval still ahead.

Wiliete drew level after the break through Mabululu. Cassius Mailula’s backpass failed to reach his team-mate and instead presented the Angolan forward with an opportunity. Unmarked, Mabululu selected his spot and curled the ball beyond Williams.

The equaliser shifted the pressure firmly on to Sundowns, who needed another goal to avoid elimination. Brayan Leon tried to force his way through a determined Wiliete defence, but the visitors remained organised and resisted the attempts to break them down.

Sundowns manager Miguel Cardoso responded by increasing the attacking options, including taking defenders off to introduce more offensive players. The changes did not produce the required breakthrough, however, and the match finished 1-1.

Wiliete’s result represents a major upset and sends them into the CAF Champions League group stage at the expense of the former champions. Sundowns had already won the MTN8, were top of the Betway Premiership standings and had lifted the CAF African-Asian-Pacific Cup before this setback.

They must now turn their attention to the FIFA Intercontinental Cup and domestic competitions, including the Betway Premiership, before returning to continental football next season.