- Sundowns’ title defence has ended before the group stage after a tense night in Pretoria
- A second-half goal changed the tie and left the defending champions chasing a decisive breakthrough
- Orlando Pirates secured their place in the group stage, keeping South African hopes alive
Source: Getty Images
Mamelodi Sundowns have been eliminated from the CAF Champions League after drawing 1-1 with Angolan debutants Wiliete SC at Loftus Versfeld Stadium on Friday, 23 October 2026. The result ended Sundowns’ hopes of defending their continental crown, with Wiliete advancing on the away-goals rule after the first leg finished goalless.
The Brazilians needed a home win to guarantee qualification, but they couldn't find the winning goal despite creating several chances. Their exit also ended a long run of reaching the competition’s group stages.
Tashreeq Matthews gives Sundowns an early lead
Sundowns started with attacking intent and took the lead in the 11th minute. Tashreeq Matthews’ long-range effort took a deflection before finding the net, putting the hosts ahead.
Watch Tashreeq Matthews' goal below:
The Pretoria side threatened to extend their advantage before half-time. Brayan León found space inside the penalty area but couldn't convert his chance.
Wiliete also created chances, with Gilberto forcing a late save from goalkeeper Ronwen Williams.
Mabululu strikes as Wiliete SC turn the tie
Wiliete captain Mabululu equalised in the 49th minute after capitalising on a misplaced pass in Sundowns’ defensive third. He raced through on goal and beat Williams to bring the Angolan side level.
Sundowns pushed for another goal, but Wiliete goalkeeper Elber Delgado produced a double save to deny Matthews and León.
Substitute Siyanda Ndlovu also tested Delgado with a powerful volley. However, the visitors held firm as the hosts searched unsuccessfully for a decisive breakthrough.
Orlando Pirates progress to the CAF Champions League group stage
While Sundowns’ campaign ended in Pretoria, Orlando Pirates qualified with a 4-0 win over Namibia’s African Stars on Friday. The Buccaneers advanced 5-0 on aggregate after a 1-0 first-leg win.
Pirates’ result means South Africa will still have representation in the group stage, although Sundowns will not be there to defend their title.
The elimination comes after Sundowns’ recent success in domestic and international competitions. Their focus will now shift to their remaining commitments as coach Miguel Cardoso assesses the outcome of a disappointing continental campaign.
Sundowns’ failure to score a second goal proved decisive against Wiliete, who capitalised on their opportunity and defended their advantage. The result marks a significant change for the reigning champions, while Pirates move forward after a commanding performance in their return leg.
Source: Briefly News
Authors:
Tags:
Hot: