Mamelodi Sundowns champions failed to qualify for the CAF Champions League group stage for the first time in twelve seasons, ending their title defense even before the tournament began.
Sundowns were shocked by the Angolan team, Vilete, which secured a 1-1 draw in the second match of the final round of the qualifying stage at Loftus Versfeld stadium on Friday. Thanks to the away goals rule, the visitors managed to advance to the group stage.
The Brazilian team will likely feel that they have slowed down in the most important game of the season so far, despite having already won MTN8, topped the Betway Premiership table, and won the Africa Cup of Nations.
Highly motivated, Sundowns started the game perfectly: a shot by Tashrek Matthuis off target past Arao Uwivi gave them an advantage. Then Sundowns sought to control the game's pace using Marcelo Allende to dictate the tempo.
However, their dominance did not lead to a second goal. Instead, Ronwen Williams was forced to prevent a conceded goal in the first half when the team was leading before halftime.
The Angolans equalized in the second half, taking advantage of the decisive away goal. This happened after a back pass from Cassius Mailula did not reach his teammate but instead went to the inconspicuous Mabululu, who aimed accurately and shot past Williams.
Bryan Leon tried to break through the stubborn Angolan defense, but Vilete held firm. Coach Miguel Cardoso used all means against the guests, including substituting defenders with attacking players.
Nevertheless, this was unsuccessful as the match ended 1-1, and the visitors eliminated the former champions thanks to the away goals rule. For Sundowns, this was a heavy defeat that will be remembered for a long time, and now they will have to focus on other competitions, such as the FIFA Intercontinental Cup and domestic tournaments, including the Betway Premiership, before returning to continental football next season.