Coach Beto Bianchi of Wiliete SC has disclosed that Orlando Pirates chairman Irvin Khoza contacted him to extend his congratulations on his team's elimination of Mamelodi Sundowns from the CAF Champions League.

Bianchi said that Khoza contacted him after Wiliete's success in advancing to the next stage of the competition. After a 1-1 draw in the second leg at Loftus Versfeld, the Angolan team eliminated Sundowns, advancing on away goals and concluding the continental campaign of the South African club.

Wiliete achieved a historic milestone by qualifying for the CAF Champions League group stage for the first time. Despite the formidable challenge posed by one of the continent's most experienced teams, the Angolan club was able to eliminate the reigning African champions.

After the initial encounter in Lubango concluded in a goalless draw, Sundowns entered the second leg with the expectation of securing qualification. Tashreeq Matthews scored the opening goal in the 11th minute at Loftus Versfeld, providing the home team with an early lead.

Nevertheless, Wiliete maintained a defensively organised approach and persisted in frustrating the Brazilians. The Angolan team was in a strong position to advance after Cristóvão "Mabululu" Paciência equalised in the 48th minute, following a defensive error by Cassius Mailula.

Despite their numerous opportunities and 18 attempts, Sundowns were unable to score the second goal they required, as Wiliete only managed six. Bianchi commended his players for adhering to the game plan and preserving their discipline throughout the match.

The Wiliete coach acknowledged that Sundowns were anticipated to dominate possession due to their quality and experience. Nevertheless, he was satisfied with the manner in which his players managed the pressure and defended in a low block at Loftus Versfeld.

Bianchi also acknowledged that Sundowns had generated sufficient opportunities to secure the victory; however, he maintained that his team capitalised on the opportunity. The most critical result for Wiliete was to qualify for the group stage and achieve the objective established at the outset of the season.

Sundowns' aspirations to defend their continental title prior to the group stage were dashed by the outcome, which marked the first time in 11 seasons that they had failed to advance to that stage of the competition.

Bianchi had previously stated that the elimination of Sundowns was essential for Wiliete to accomplish its goal. Ultimately, his players achieved the desired outcome, garnering commendation for their defensive prowess and resolve.

An alleged altercation between Bianchi and Sundowns assistant coach Steve Komphela after the first match in Angola had also garnered attention in the lead-up to the second leg. Bianchi was reported to have exited the stadium in an ambulance subsequent to the incident.

However, Wiliete's qualification has redirected attention to football, as the club commemorates a significant milestone in its history. Khoza's reported congratulatory call served as an additional noteworthy moment in Bianchi's celebrations subsequent to the Angolan team's unforgettable triumph.

Source: IDiskiTimes