Mamelodi Sundowns head coach Rulani Mokwena has revealed what will take them to the next level after they were knocked out of the CAF Champions League in the semi-finals.
Sundowns could not progress to the CAF Champions League final for the first time since 2016 after they were bundled out on away goals' rule by holders Wydad Casablanca following a 2-2 draw on aggregate.
Read: SSU Could Lose Another Key Player To Downs
The Brazilians were considered favourites to beat Wydad and make it to the final and Mokwena says they bow out having won a lot of hearts and will give it another go next season.
"Maybe the words fail me at the moment but I have to congratulate the football club for having a good run in the CAF Champions League, it's a difficult competition," Mokwena said in a press conference.
"Congratulations to Wydad for progressing, wishing them all the best for the final. We end having won a lot of hearts but of course not good enough so, we we've got to galvanise strength, pick ourselves up and go again next season."
The young tactician was also asked how he will pick up his players following the disappointment and says the players know he loves them even more after the defeat and that it is in the bad moments where he has to show his leadership.
"They know I love them more actually, in good and bad we stick together but that's why I'm here, that's why the club has entrusted me with this responsibility," he went on.
Read: Downs To Initiate Sirino Contract Talks
"It is in the bad moments that I have to step up, firstly take responsibility and try to allow the players to feel it. We've got to feel it because it is the pain that will push us to next level.
"But this group knows that I love them and also that I love them more than when we won the championship a few days ago," he added.
