Shock in CAF Champions League as Wiliete SC Eliminate Defending Champions Mamelodi Sundowns

Angola’s Wiliete SC have pulled off a major shock in the CAF Champions League after knocking out defending champions Mamelodi Sundowns of South Africa to reach the group stage.

Wiliete secured qualification after holding Sundowns to a 1-1 draw in Pretoria on Friday, advancing on the away-goals rule after both teams played out a goalless draw in the first leg in Benguela.

Sundowns were favourites to progress, especially with the advantage of playing at home, and they started well at Loftus Versfeld Stadium.

Tashreeq Williams gave the South African giants the lead in the 11th minute, putting them ahead on the night and on aggregate.

However, Wiliete fought back after the break, with Cristovao Paciencia, popularly known as Mabululu, scoring the equaliser four minutes into the second half.

The goal changed the direction of the tie, as Wiliete gained the advantage on away goals.

Sundowns pushed forward in search of another goal but failed to break through Wiliete’s defence as the Angolan side held on to secure a place in the group stage.

The result ends Sundowns’ title defence in a major upset, while Wiliete, founded in 2018, will make their appearance in the competition’s group stage.

Orlando Pirates Cruise Into Group Stage

Meanwhile, South Africa’s Orlando Pirates secured their place in the group stage with a convincing 4-0 victory over Namibia’s African Stars FC.

The win gave Pirates a 5-0 aggregate victory after their 1-0 win in the first leg.

Thapelo Mokobodi opened the scoring in the 11th minute before Evidence Makgopa added a second goal just before half-time.

Mpho Padime made it 3-0 shortly after the break, while Makgopa completed his brace in the 77th minute to seal the victory.

The 1995 champions will now await their group-stage opponents as they continue South Africa’s campaign in the competition following Sundowns’ unexpected exit.