Mamelodi Sundowns have been knocked out of the CAF Champions League following their 1-1 draw against Wiliete SC in the second preliminary on Friday night at Loftus Versfeld. The away goal rule worked in the visitors’ advantage.
Masandawana kicked off the match by almost finding an early goal. Ronwen Williams dropped the ball in the box from the other half which was found by Thabang Matuludi who headed it towards goal. Bathusi Aubaas connected with it but his effort was cleared by Wiliete.
On the fourth minute, the visitors nearly broke the deadlock through a defence-splitting pass. They managed to enter the box but Aubaas made a crucial interception to deny them.
Through a corner kick effort, Matuludi had a mouthwatering chance to break the deadlock with a glancing header but it missed the target by an inch, sailing over the bar.
On the 11th minute, finally, Tashreeq Matthews blocked the deadlock for Bafana Ba Style. Aided by a deflection,
On the 27th minute, the visitors looked to level matters but Williams’ foot saved the day as it cleared the dangerous ball.
Entering the 40th minute, Wiliete attempted to score from the left flank. With no one to connect with the ball, it just crossed the face of goal. After a tough battle in the opening half, Masandawana went to the break with a lead.
Wiliete kicked off the second stanza strongly and on the 48th minute, a slip cost Masandawana which left Wiliete unmarked. The visitors wasted no time and put the ball past Williams to equalize.
Two minutes later the hosts almost snatched back the lead but the keeper smacked the effort away. They found the rebound but it was cleared away.
The Brazilians created multiple clear-cut chances in front of goal but the Wiliete goalkeeper was making it hard for the hosts, denying them a goal.
On the 78th minute, Leon almost made it two with header but it went wide. Coach Miguel Cardoso’s half tried their best but it wasn’t to be, as they bow out of the continental cup.
How we lined up: Williams ©, Matuludi, Ndamane, Khoza, Modiba, Aubaas, Allende, Santos, Matthews, Leon, Mailula.
Subs: Goss, Morena, Basadien, Mvala, Rayners, Zwane, Cele, van Wyk, Ndlovu.
