Beto Bianchi Praises Wiliete SC After Historic Elimination of Mamelodi Sundowns

Wiliete SC coach Beto Bianchi has praised his players for their defensive discipline after the Angolan side eliminated Mamelodi Sundowns from the CAF Champions League to reach the group stage for the first time in the club’s history.

Wiliete secured a 1-1 draw against Sundowns at Loftus Versfeld on Friday night, progressing on away goals after the first leg ended goalless in Lubango. The result marked a major upset, ending Sundowns’ continental title defence before the group stage.

Sundowns started brightly, with Tashreeq Matthews opening the scoring in the 11th minute. However, Wiliete responded three minutes after the restart when Cristóvão “Mabululu” Paciência capitalised on a defensive mistake involving Cassius Mailula to equalise in the 48th minute.

Despite dominating possession and registering 18 shots compared to Wiliete’s six, Sundowns could not find the decisive goal. The visitors remained organised under pressure, frustrating their opponents until the final whistle.

Bianchi expressed satisfaction with his team’s performance, explaining that his players understood the challenge of facing an experienced Sundowns side. He acknowledged that Wiliete expected to spend considerable time defending but praised the players for sticking to their game plan and taking advantage of their scoring opportunity.

The qualification represents a significant milestone for Wiliete, fulfilling one of the club’s major objectives for the season.

Meanwhile, Sundowns chairman Tlhopie Motsepe has expressed disappointment following the elimination, describing the outcome as painful for the club’s leadership. Reports indicate that head coach Miguel Cardoso faces increased pressure to deliver success in the FIFA Intercontinental Cup and CAF Super Cup.

Sundowns have now failed to reach the Champions League group stage for the first time in 11 seasons, raising questions about the team’s response to the setback.

Attention will turn to Cardoso and his players as they seek to restore confidence and deliver silverware in their remaining competitions, while Wiliete celebrate a historic achievement in African football.

Source

https://www.idiskitimes.co.za/caf-champions-league/cardoso-it-was-a-big-punch-in-our-faces/