Mamelodi Sundowns crash out of CAF Champions League after Wiliete setback
Mamelodi Sundowns crash out of CAF Champions League after Wiliete setback
Mamelodi Sundowns have suffered a shock exit from the 2026–27 CAF Champions League after being held to a 1-1 draw by Angolan side Wiliete S.C. in the second qualifying round at Loftus Versfeld Stadium in Pretoria.
The South African giants failed to overturn the stalemate from the first leg, with the tie ending 1-1 on aggregate as Wiliete advanced at their expense on the away-goals rule.
Sundowns entered the return fixture needing a victory to secure their place in the group stage, but Wiliete produced a determined performance to eliminate one of the continent’s established clubs.
Matthews gave Sundowns an early breakthrough in the 11th minute, raising hopes among the home supporters that the hosts would take control of the contest.
However, Wiliete responded shortly after the restart, with Mabululu finding the net in the 49th minute to level the match and put the Angolan side in a strong position in the tie.
Despite the remaining minutes, Sundowns were unable to find the decisive goal needed to avoid elimination, allowing Wiliete to celebrate a significant result on South African soil.
The result represents a major milestone for the Benguela-based club, which has secured progression to the next stage at the expense of a side with considerable experience in African club competition.
For Sundowns, the disappointment is particularly significant as it marks their first failure to reach the CAF Champions League group stage since 2015, ending a run of consistent appearances at the competition’s main phase.
The early elimination will come as a setback for the Pretoria club, who had hoped to continue their continental campaign and challenge for the prestigious African title.
Wiliete, meanwhile, will take confidence from their disciplined performance across the two legs as they continue their pursuit of a place among Africa’s leading clubs.
Match result: Mamelodi Sundowns 1-1 Wiliete S.C.
Aggregate: 1-1
Goals: Matthews 11′ | Mabululu 49′
Outcome: Wiliete S.C. advance on the away-goals rule.