Wiliete SC head coach Beto Bianchi has praised his team’s 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 the historic qualification after holding the reigning African champions to a 1-1 draw at Loftus Versfeld on Friday night. The result left the tie level at 1-1 on aggregate following a goalless first leg in Angola, allowing the visitors to advance on the away-goals rule.

Sundowns started the return fixture strongly, with Tashreeq Matthews opening the scoring in the 11th minute. The home side appeared to be in control, but Wiliete remained organised defensively and waited for an opportunity to respond.

That moment arrived shortly after half-time when Angola international Cristóvão Mabululu capitalised on a defensive mistake to equalise in the 48th minute. His goal proved decisive, as Sundowns were unable to find another breakthrough despite creating several chances.

Bianchi was pleased with his players’ ability to follow their tactical plan, particularly their discipline when defending deep against a team known for its attacking quality.

“I want to congratulate my players, it’s not everyday you beat Mamelodi in their home turf, it was evident they would dominate possession at home, when it comes to defending in a low block, we did very well,” the coach said.

The Wiliete coach acknowledged that Sundowns created numerous opportunities but praised his team for making the most of its decisive chance.

“They had many opportunities, goal scoring opportunities, but this is football – we just take the one shot we did and we are qualified now, that’s the most important thing for us,” Bianchi added.

The elimination represents a major setback for Sundowns, who had reached the Champions League group stage in each of the previous 11 seasons. Their title defence has now ended before the main competition begins.

For Wiliete, however, the achievement marks a significant milestone and fulfils one of the club’s major objectives for the season.

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