Wiliete SC head coach Beto Bianchi has revealed that Orlando Pirates chairman Irvin Khoza personally contacted him to extend his congratulations after the Angolan side dramatically eliminated Mamelodi Sundowns from the CAF Champions League. According to Bianchi, Khoza reached out shortly after the final whistle to acknowledge Wiliete’s historic victory over one of the continent's major football heavyweights.

The Angolan club secured their place in the next round by holding Sundowns to a 1-1 draw in the second leg at Loftus Versfeld Stadium in Pretoria. Having built a strong foundation in the opening leg, Wiliete advanced on the away goals rule, bringing a sudden end to Sundowns’ continental campaign. The result sent shockwaves through African football, as Sundowns were widely expected to launch a deep run into the tournament given their domestic dominance and consistent success in past editions of the competition.

For Sundowns, the early exit represents a severe disappointment and raises immediate concerns about their current form on the international stage. Failing to overcome a determined Wiliete squad on home soil leaves the South African powerhouse with difficult questions to address as they redirect their focus back to domestic fixtures.

Conversely, the triumph marks a landmark moment for Wiliete and their head coach. By knocking out a former champion, the Angolan side qualified for the CAF Champions League group stage for the very first time in the club's history, signaling their rising stature in regional football.

Khoza’s decision to personally contact Bianchi highlights the wide impact of Wiliete's accomplishment. As the leader of Orlando Pirates, one of Sundowns’ chief domestic rivals, Khoza’s gesture underscores the respect the Angolan team earned by pulling off such an upset. As Wiliete prepares to enter the group stage with newfound confidence, they will look to build on this momentum, while Sundowns must quickly recover from one of their most frustrating continental setbacks in recent years.

source:

https://www.idiskitimes.co.za/caf-champions-league/bianchi-honest-over-shock-sundowns-elimination/