Mamelodi Sundowns have joined an unwanted list of former CAF Champions League winners who failed to reach the group stage in the season immediately after lifting the continental title.

The South African giants suffered a shock elimination in the 2026 campaign after failing to overcome Angolan side Wiliete SC in the second preliminary round.

Following a goalless draw in the first leg, Sundowns were held to a 1-1 draw at Loftus Versfeld, with Wiliete advancing on the away-goals rule.

However, Sundowns are not the first defending champions to suffer such disappointment, with several African heavyweights having experienced similar setbacks.

Raja Casablanca – 2000

Moroccan giants Raja Casablanca were eliminated by Senegalese side Jeanne d’Arc in 2000 after winning the competition the previous year.

Hearts of Oak – 2001

Ghanaian giants Hearts of Oak suffered a similar fate in 2001 after winning the Champions League in 2000.

The Phobians were eliminated by Congolese side Étoile du Congo, losing 6-4 on aggregate after a 5-1 defeat in the return leg.

Al Ahly – 2002

Egyptian giants Al Ahly failed to reach the group stage in 2002 after winning the competition in 2001.

Zamalek – 2003

Zamalek also experienced an early exit in 2003, with Tanzanian side Simba SC eliminating the Egyptian champions.

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Étoile du Sahel – 2008

Tunisian side Étoile du Sahel were unable to reach the group stage in 2008, falling to Zimbabwean outfit Dynamos.

Al Ahly – 2009

Al Ahly suffered another early elimination in 2009, this time at the hands of Nigerian side Kano Pillars.

TP Mazembe – 2011

DR Congo’s TP Mazembe were disqualified from the competition in 2011 following an administrative error, preventing them from reaching the group stage.

Al Ahly – 2014

The Egyptian giants suffered another setback in 2014 when Libyan side Al Ahli Benghazi eliminated them from the competition.

TP Mazembe – 2016

Mazembe featured on the list again in 2016 after being eliminated by Moroccan giants Wydad Casablanca.

Mamelodi Sundowns – 2026

Sundowns are the latest addition after their elimination by Wiliete SC ended their hopes of defending the title in the 2026 campaign.

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