Mamelodi Sundowns have crashed out of the CAF Champions League on the away-goal rule after a 1-1 draw against Wiliete SC on Friday night at Loftus Versfeld. The result means the reigning champions failed to reach the group stage and saw their title defence end at the preliminary stage.

Sundowns started brightly and took the lead in the 11th minute. Tashreeq Matthews struck from range and the shot took a deflection before finding the net. The home side controlled large parts of the first half and created more chances, but they could not add a second goal before the break.

Wiliete levelled the scores early in the second half. Mabululu scored in the 49th minute after a defensive mistake left him through on goal. The Angolan striker finished calmly past Ronwen Williams to make it 1-1 on the night and on aggregate.

From that moment, Sundowns pushed hard for a winner. Coach Miguel Cardoso made attacking changes and the Brazilians created several openings. Brayan Leon went close and Siyanda Ndlovu forced a good save with a volley, but Wiliete goalkeeper Elber Delgado stood firm. The visitors defended with discipline and held on until the final whistle.

The first leg in Lubango last Sunday had ended 0-0. That goalless draw left everything to play for in Pretoria. Because both teams scored one goal across the two legs, the away-goal rule decided the tie in Wiliete’s favour. The Angolan club, making their debut at this stage of the competition, advanced to the group stage.

The result is a major upset for Sundowns. They have been one of the strongest sides in African club football and entered the match as clear favourites. Wiliete, however, showed great organisation and took their chance when it came. For Masandawana, the focus now shifts to domestic competitions and other continental fixtures while they prepare for next season’s CAF Champions League campaign. The early exit will sting for players and supporters who expected a long run in the competition.

Source: https://x.com/KickOffMagazine/status/2113721529905058009