Sundowns told dangermen for Angolan side ahead of Champions League clash

Petro de Luanda goalkeeper Hugo Marques has offered his insights on Wiliete Sport Club, the Angolan side set to face reigning champions Mamelodi Sundowns in the second preliminary round of the CAF Champions League.

Wiliete secured their spot in the continental competition for only the second time in their history, following consecutive runner-up finishes in Angola’s top-flight league, the Girabola.

Wiliete SC of Angola will face Mamelodi Sundowns in CAF Champions League.

The Benguela-based club advanced to the next stage after a dominant 5-0 aggregate victory over Seychelles’ Foresters Mont Fleuri, setting up a clash with the defending champions.

Who should Sundowns be wary of?

Marques, whose Petro team claimed the league title last season, provided a detailed breakdown of their domestic rivals.

“It’s a new club, only about eight years old, and they won the Taca de Angola last year,” Marques told KickOff. “They are sponsored by a bank from Benguela and have signed good players. Gilberto, formerly of Orlando Pirates, is there.”

Mamelodi Sundowns players celebrate their win over Siwelele FC. Image: Mamelodi Sundowns

The former Cape Town City keeper also highlighted other key players on Wiliete’s roster. “Mabululu, the striker from the Angolan national team, and other guys play very well. I think it’s going to be difficult for Sundowns here in Angola, but I don’t think they have the power to fight Sundowns in South Africa,” he explained. “But they have a good team.”

Angolan side has a number of weapons

Marques continued his analysis, pointing out their defensive strengths. “The right-back is very good; he is the brother of a centre-back who plays for FAR Rabat and played in the final against Sundowns. The centre-backs are also good—a Brazilian and an Angolan. They lost the Super Cup against us, but they are playing very well.”

Former Orlando Pirates star Gilberto (right) is among dangermen for Wiliete Sport Club.

Meanwhile, Petro de Luanda also advanced after a narrow 3-2 aggregate win against Mozambican side UD Songo in the first preliminary round. They are now scheduled to face Zimbabwean club Scottland FC.

The first-leg matches of the second preliminary round are scheduled for October 17, with Mamelodi Sundowns traveling to Angola for the initial encounter.