Sundowns Prepare for Wiliete Challenge as Cardoso Urges Strong Response to Make CAF Champions League Group Stage

PRETORIA – Mamelodi Sundowns are gearing up for a vital CAF Champions League match against Angolan team Wiliete SC, aiming to secure their spot in the group stages of Africa's top club tournament.

The Brazilians will host Wiliete at Loftus Versfeld Stadium in Pretoria on Friday, 23 October 2026, for the second leg of their preliminary-round tie, knowing that a win is crucial to keep their continental goals alive.

In the first leg held in Angola on Sunday, 18 October, the match ended in a goalless draw, leaving the teams evenly matched ahead of the return clash. Both sides struggled to score, so Sundowns must leverage their home advantage this time.

Head coach Miguel Cardoso has urged his players to adopt a more aggressive and attacking strategy, expressing his disappointment with their inability to convert chances in the first match.

The Portuguese coach believes that his team needs to exhibit greater determination in the attacking third and showcase the quality expected from a top African football club.

Cardoso noted that while Sundowns created chances in Angola, they missed crucial opportunities. He also acknowledged the challenge posed by Wiliete, who proved themselves capable of competing with established continental teams.

Wiliete should not be underestimated, especially after their disciplined display in the first leg. Their physical style and direct attack created difficulties for the South African champions, who were forced to work hard to secure a draw.

Thus, Sundowns must balance patience with a sense of urgency in their attack when the teams meet again in Pretoria.

Nonetheless, the Brazilians can remain optimistic. Playing in front of their home crowd allows them to control the pace, generate more scoring opportunities, and apply sustained pressure on Wiliete.

Concerns about midfielder Teboho Mokoena’s fitness arise, as he was taken off on a stretcher during the first leg due to a new injury to a previously affected ligament. Cardoso hopes for his swift recovery, though the severity of the injury is still unclear.

For Sundowns, advancing is more than just moving to the next round; as the defending African champions, they are eager to uphold their status among the continent's elite and pursue another successful campaign.

However, Wiliete will come with their own aspirations and aim to challenge the hosts.

With the first leg ending in a 0-0 stalemate, Sundowns understand that a win will guarantee their qualification, while another drawn match with goals could jeopardize their progress due to the away-goals rule.

All eyes will be on Loftus Versfeld as Masandawana readies for a critical moment in their continental journey.

Source https://x.com/centralnewsza/status/2112211877908353529