Mamelodi Sundowns assistant coach Steve Komphela insists the club have the character, experience and technical strength to recover from their disappointing CAF Champions League exit and CAF Super Cup defeat.
The Brazilians have endured a difficult period on the continental front, having suffered elimination from the CAF Champions League to Williete SC before losing to USM Alger in the CAF Super Cup at Loftus Versfeld.
The results have represented a significant setback for a club accustomed to competing for major honours, but Komphela believes such moments are precisely where a team’s character is tested for the reigning champions of Africa – who now don’t have the opportunity to defend their title.
“Champions must always find a way [to recover]. This is how character gets built. I don’t think we’re the first ones to be through this and we won’t be the last ones – Sundowns has been in situations where we need to dust ourselves and show character,” he said.
Komphela also expressed confidence in the quality of the squad and technical team, pointing to the experience within the dressing room as an important factor in navigating the difficult period.
While admitting that the recent disappointments will take their toll, he believes the most important step is accepting the situation and identifying what needs to change.
“We have a great dressing room of highly experienced players and a technical team that is strong enough, that has a way to focus on what has to be looked at. Yes, we will feel it, but the best part is understanding there’s nothing you can do about it.
“You can only go back, do your corrections, rectify and find a way out and as they always say – this is breakfast for champions, give us an opportunity to bounce back again.”
Sundowns now move into the FIFA International break for two and a half weeks, then league outings against Kruger United and Polokwane City before the next stage of the FIFA InterContinental Cup.