Downs, Chiefs out of CAF as Pirates advance to group stage
Mamelodi Sundowns and Kaizer Chiefs were eliminated from CAF club competitions, while Orlando Pirates successfully advanced to the group stage. The results mark a significant shift in the African football landscape as smaller clubs upset established powerhouses.
Why it matters
These results represent a major shake-up in African club football, impacting the competitive hierarchy and prestige of the continent's top teams.
In news that will send shock waves across the African continent, defending champions Mamelodi Sundowns were dumped out of the CAF Champions League in the second preliminary round by minnows and debutants Wiliete SC after their 1-1 draw at the Loftus Versfeld Stadium on Friday night.
Sundowns, who have established themselves as a powerhouse in CAF club competitions and won their second CAF star last season, will not progress to the group stages. Wiliete, who are from Angola, have now booked their ticket to the next round. Sundowns last failed to qualify for the group stage in 2015.
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