Mamelodi Sundowns are ready to quickly forget the disappointing result registered in the first leg of the CAF Champions League final against Pyramids FC, with the focus firmly on the decider in Cairo on Sunday.
Sundowns failed to make home advantage count in the first leg after drawing 1-1 against the Egyptian visitors at Loftus Versfeld Stadium on Saturday.
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They thought they were home and dry after taking the lead in the 54th minute through Lucas Ribeiro Costa, only to concede a goal deep into the referee’s optional time to set up a delicately poised second leg at 30 June Stadium in seven days' time.
The Brazlians now need an outright win or high-scoring draw to add a second star above their crest, having won the tournament in 2016.
Assistant coach Steve Komphela and goalscorer Ribeiro remain optimistic.
“What is important for us is to go to Cairo and do business. Looking back at what has happened and all that will not help us a lot. We have to knuckle down, get results, and come back," acknowledged Komphela in the mixed zone post-match.
"It's the final of the Champions League. Can you win away? Or can you draw with more goals? Those are possibilities we have to look at."
Ribeiro was closely monitored by the Pyramids defence but managed to escape from their clutches to net the most important goal for the men in Yellow and Blue in the 54th minute.
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“I am happy we scored the goal, but the job is not done. We are going that side, we need to finish the championship on that side," he said.
"It's very difficult. The team scored the goal at the last minute, but it's okay, this is football. The guys need to stay strong. We go that side and make sure we play good that side,” said the Brazilian playmaker with the magic left foot.
