Defending champions Sundowns have been eliminated from the CAF Champions League by Angola's Wiliete, a result reported on Friday as the biggest surprise of the competition so far. The outcome was described as a major upset by المصري اليوم, إرم نيوز and بوابة الشروق, all of which reported the exit.
الزمالك اليوم framed the elimination as an earthquake for the tournament, noting that one of the strongest contenders — and one of the toughest rivals standing between Zamalek and the title — is now out. FilGoal also carried video of the goal with which Wiliete drew level against Sundowns, credited to Mabululu.
The reports did not give the aggregate score or the details of the second leg, so the full picture of how the tie was decided is not yet clear from the material available. What is established is that the holders are gone and Wiliete, an Angolan side, are the team responsible.
For Zamalek, the removal of the defending champions changes the shape of the bracket. According to الزمالك اليوم, Sundowns had been counted among the strongest candidates for the trophy as well as one of Zamalek's most serious competitors, and their departure leaves the field more open.
What to watch next: confirmation of the aggregate score and the remaining fixtures, which will show how the draw now lines up for Zamalek and the other sides still in the competition.
