Durban City FC's next opponents, Mamelodi Sundowns, have been knocked out of the CAF Champions League, ending their defence of the continental title. The South African champions were eliminated in a preliminary round upset by Angolan side Wiliete SC on the away goals rule after a 1-1 draw at Loftus Versfeld.

Tashreeq Matthews gave Sundowns an early lead in the 11th minute, but Cristovao 'Mabululu' Paciência equalised for the visitors just after half-time. With the aggregate score tied at 1-1, Wiliete's away goal sent them through. The result means Sundowns have no route into this season's CAF Confederation Cup, as the continental governing body has scrapped the play-off that previously offered a lifeline to Champions League casualties.

This early exit marks a significant setback for Sundowns, who last won the Champions League in 2016 and will now see domestic rivals Orlando Pirates as the sole South African representative in the group stage. The team's focus now turns entirely to retaining their Betway Premiership crown, where they currently lead the standings by 16 points.

For Durban City, this news adds a fresh layer of context to their upcoming fixture. They travel to face the league leaders on 1 November, sitting 10th in the table with seven points from eight matches, a record of one win, four draws, and three losses. Their recent form has been mixed, with two wins, a draw, and two losses in their last five outings, culminating in a 3-1 victory over ASPL 2000 last weekend. That win on 18 October followed a 1-2 home defeat to Amazulu on 13 October, where Domingo scored their consolation goal in the 72nd minute. Across the season, Durban City have scored five goals while conceding seven. Sundowns' continental disappointment could influence their domestic preparations ahead of the clash at the end of the month.

Background and full detail: Goal.com

Mamelodi Sundowns manager Miguel Cardoso has responded to his side's Champions League exit, stating, "The only way is to move forward." The coach told reporters the fault lay with his team, citing poor finishing and a loss of composure after conceding. Sundowns, who Durban City face on 1 November, are 16 points clear at the top of the Premier Soccer League. Durban City, 10th with seven points, are coming off a 3-1 win over ASPL 2000 on 18 October.