The tie is currently locked at 1-1 after Pyramids scored a late equaliser during the first leg at Loftus Versfeld on Saturday.

The Brazilians were on the brink of sealing a vital home win when Walid El Karti netted a dramatic goal four minutes into stoppage time, securing a draw and a crucial away goal for the Egyptian side.

Despite the draw, Sundowns head into the second leg at a slight disadvantage due to the away-goal rule, which gives Pyramids the upper hand.

Downs head coach Miguel Cardoso says the team’s immediate goal is to reclaim the away goal. While he acknowledges the challenge ahead, he believes this is a chance for the team to show their character and prove they deserve the title of African champions.

“The attitude of champions is seen when things don’t go well,” said the experienced Portuguese coach. “When everything is going smoothly, it’s easy to look like a champion. True champions rise when times are tough – they show what they’re made of in difficult moments.

“We’ve got 90 minutes to play, and we need to take responsibility. Our first step is to score a goal – and build from there.”

Lucas Ribeiro Costa. Photo: Sundowns

Cardoso also commented on Pyramids FC’s midweek fixture against Ceramica Cleopatra, saying he fully expects the Egyptians to rest their key players ahead of Sunday’s crucial clash.

“I’m certain they’ll rotate their squad completely for that match,” Cardoso said. “They won’t risk any of the players who will feature in the second leg of the final.”

The decisive second leg will take place on Sunday at the 30 June Stadium in Cairo, with kick-off scheduled for 19:00.

OFM Sport/Morgan Piek cg