The match faced a 30-minute delay due to heavy rains in Angola, resulting in a kick-off adjustment from 17:00 to 17:30.

Following the delay, the Brazilians started strongly and crafted their first significant scoring chance in the 25th minute. However, Tashreeq Matthews’ right-foot shot was easily saved by Wiliete goalkeeper Elber Delgado.

Sundowns maintained control and pressed for an opening goal but faced a challenge just before halftime when midfielder Teboho Mokoena was injured due to a tackle by Bocar Sidibe. Mokoena had to be substituted for Bathusi Aubaas.

In the second half, Sundowns kept up their momentum as they pursued a breakthrough.

Their first significant opportunity after the break arrived in the 65th minute when Thapelo Morena delivered an excellent pass to Matthews. However, the forward’s right-foot shot from within the box was thwarted by Delgado once again, keeping his team in the match.

Wiliete registered their first major scoring chance in the 70th minute through ex-Orlando Pirates winger Miguel Gilberto.

After maneuvering past Sundowns goalkeeper Ricardo Goss, Gilberto sought to shoot from inside the box, but Thabang Matuludi intervened crucially. Goss then collected the ball as Sundowns dodged a possible threat.

The Brazilians persisted in their hunt for a goal and earned another chance in the 85th minute when Iqraam Rayners took a free-kick. Unfortunately for Sundowns, his attempt was comfortably saved by Delgado, who denied them yet again.

Despite late efforts to secure a winning goal, Sundowns could not penetrate Wiliete’s defense, resulting in a goalless draw.

The two teams will clash once more in the second leg at Loftus Versfeld Stadium in Pretoria on Friday, with Sundowns aiming to clinch a victory and secure their spot in the CAF Champions League group stages.