Breaking: Mamelodi Sundowns crash out of CAF Champions League while Pirates advance

Reigning champions Mamelodi Sundowns have crashed out of the CAF Champions League after drawing 1-1 with Williette on Friday night.

Having played to a goalless draw in Angola, Masandawana needed a victory at Loftus Versfeld to secure their place in the next round. A goalless draw would have forced a penalty shootout, while any scoring draw would see the Brazilians eliminated.

Tashreeq Matthews gave Sundowns an early lead in the 11th minute, raising hopes of progression. However, a defensive mistake allowed the visitors to equalise and put the hosts under pressure.

Sundowns pushed forward in search of a winning goal but failed to find the breakthrough, suffering a disappointing early exit from the continental competition.

Sundowns bow out of CAF

The 1-1 draw on the night left the aggregate score level at 1-1, with Sundowns eliminated on the away-goals rule. It marks the first time since 2015 that the Brazilians have failed to reach the CAF Champions League group stages.

The setback will come as a major blow to Masandawana, who had already won two trophies this season and were hoping to defend their continental crown.

Their rivals Orlando Pirates, meanwhile, secured their place in the group stages after recording an emphatic 5-0 aggregate victory over African Stars on Friday evening.

With their CAF campaign over, Sundowns will now have to turn their attention to domestic competitions, including the Betway Premiership and the remaining cup tournaments, as they look to add to their trophy haul this season.