Sundowns in denial after shock CAF CL exit? ‘It’s very difficult,’ international star concedes

Holders Mamelodi Sundowns were eliminated from CAF Champions League by minnows Wiliete Sports Club in the second preliminary round.

The first leg ended goalless before the Angolan outfit defied the odds to draw 1-1 at Loftus Versfeld Stadium in Pretoria to advance to the group stage of the prestigious continental club competition.

This was the first time, since 2015, the Brazilians have been failed to make at least the group stage in the annual competition. The result was a shocker owing to the good run the Miguel Cardoso led Sundowns have had across all competitions since the start of the ongoing 2026/27 edition.

Masandawana in denial?

South Africa international Tashreeq Matthews has conceded it is tough for them to admit they are out of the Champions League. Despite that, the Bafana Bafana winger is adamant there are still many trophies that they will be chasing in the ongoing edition.

“I think after the game, we have to reflect, but it’s also important that you take the step forward. It’s very difficult to get over what happened,” Matthews told the club’s media team.

“But at the end of the day you have to take the step forward because there are other trophies to be won. Yes, the Champions League is the biggest thing in Africa, but we still have a lot of trophies to look forward to,” he further explained.

On Tuesday night, Masandawana host Marumo Gallants in Carling Knockout Round of 16 hoping to get a win to advance. The club will most definitely aim at bouncing back from CAF champions League elimination to go all the way in the domestic competition