African football earthquake! Reigning champions Mamelodi Sundowns suffer humiliating Champions League exit
One of the biggest shocks in African football has unfolded! Defending CAF Champions League winners Mamelodi Sundowns have been eliminated before the group stage after a stunning result against Angola's Wiliete.
Details: On October 23, Mamelodi Sundowns were held to a 1-1 home draw by Wiliete in the second leg of their CAF Champions League second preliminary round tie. With the first meeting in Angola ending 0-0, the aggregate score finished 1-1. The Angolan visitors advanced on away goals, leaving the reigning African champions facing an extraordinary early elimination. South African broadcaster SABC Sport confirmed the outcome, declaring the end of the road for Masandawana.
Sundowns entered the return leg under immense pressure following their goalless draw in Angola on October 18. The South African side needed a victory to guarantee qualification but were unable to defeat their determined opponents. Wiliete's away goal ultimately proved decisive, turning what should have been a routine home assignment into a devastating result.
The result represents a major setback for head coach Miguel Cardoso. Before the match, the Portuguese manager had described the encounter as a final, recognising the enormous consequences of failure. Despite their continental experience and reputation, Sundowns could not overcome a Wiliete side determined to produce a historic upset.
It's worth noting that Mamelodi Sundowns won their second CAF Champions League title in May 2026. They were expected to mount another serious challenge for the trophy, but their title defence has ended before the group stage. Wiliete, meanwhile, had reached this round after defeating Foresters 5-0 on aggregate.
Reminder: Oh no! Mamelodi Sundowns key player left the field on a stretcher in CAF Champions League match.
Miguel Solomons
Dailysports's expert
