Angola’s Wiliete SC produced one of TotalEnergies CAF Champions League greatest shocks when they dethroned title holders and South African giants Mamelodi Sundowns, after forcing them to a 1-1 draw in Pretoria to reach the group stage on away goals rule.
After playing a goalless draw last weekend in Benguela, all odds were in favour of Sundowns to win at home and reach the group stage to continue their title defence campaign. And it started right for “The Brazilians” at Loftus Versfeld in Pretoria when the holders took the lead early on the night.
Tashreeq Williams put Mamelodi Sundowns ahead after 11 minutes, as it looked like a paved way for the two-time champions to the group stage. Both sides went to the break with Sundowns leading in the night and on aggregate.
After halftime, Sundowns pushed to add a second goal to secure their way to the next round. But they were dealt a blow when Cristovao Paciencia “Mabululu” equalized for Wiliete four minutes into the second half to make it 1-1 on aggregate.
With the away goal favouring the Angolans, Sundowns threw everything in attack while Wiliete defended in numbers. Time passed as Wiliete preserved the valuable draw and completed the infamous shock. Wiliete, only founded in 2018, will now play in the prestigious group stage, while Mamelodi Sundowns will be left regretting their missed chances.
