Hlungwani backs referee over Sundowns goal ruled out against Wiliete

Former PSL referee Victor Hlungwani has defended the decision to disallow a Mamelodi Sundowns goal in their CAF Champions League tie against Wiliete SC, according to iDiski Times. He praised the match official, Keabetswe Dintwa of Botswana, for the way he handled the moment.

What happened in the 54th minute

Sundowns striker Brayan Leon, who is Colombian, appeared to have put the Brazilians ahead 2-1 in the 54th minute. Dintwa, however, stopped play and gave a free kick to the Angolan side for an infringement by the Sundowns player. The goal did not stand.

The decision proved significant. Sundowns, the reigning African champions, were beaten in the second leg of their second round preliminary tie and went through on the wrong side of the away goals rule. As a result, they will not get the chance to defend the title they won.

Hlungwani’s view

Hlungwani, nicknamed "The Principal", gave his opinion on Soccerzone. He argued that replays showed Leon impeding a Wiliete player and stopping that opponent from getting into a better position to play the ball.

In his view, Dintwa was correct to rule out the strike. "There was a foul," Hlungwani said, pointing to Leon as the player who committed it. He also commended the Botswana referee for his bravery in making a call that went against the favourites.

What it means for Sundowns

The ruling leaves Sundowns without a place in the next stage of the continental competition. Hlungwani’s comments do not change the result, but they add an expert voice to the debate about one of the key moments in the second leg.

For supporters, the main point is that the club’s Champions League campaign has ended earlier than many expected for the holders. The source did not say what Sundowns plan to do next, so any further reaction from the club or its coach is yet to be reported.

• Competition: CAF Champions League, second round preliminary, second leg
• Opponent: Wiliete SC of Angola
• Disallowed goal: Brayan Leon, 54th minute
• Outcome: Sundowns eliminated on away goals

This story is based on reporting by iDiski Times.