Mamelodi Sundowns goalkeeper Ricardo Goss has revealed the challenge faced by his side in their goalless draw against Wiliete SC in the CAF Champions League.
The Tshwane giants played to a stalemate with Wiliete at Estadio Nacionale da Tundavala in Angola on Sunday in the first leg of the Champions League second preliminary round.
Masandawana struggled to impose themselves and play their usual enterprising football after Wiliete stood firm in defence.
After securing a draw on the road, Sundowns will aim to wrap up a home victory this Friday to secure their spot in the tournament’s knockout stages.
Having lifted the Champions League title last season, Masandawana are determined to deliver another dominant performance as they launch their continental defence.
In a match against the Angola outfit, Sundowns coach Miguel Cardoso named Goss in the starting line-up in the absence of first-choice goalie Ronwen Williams, who sustained a knock at training.
MAMELODI SUNDOWNS GOALKEEPER RICARDO GOSS FLAGS POOR PITCH CONDITIONS IN SUNDOWNS’ DRAW AGAINST WILIETE
The former Golden Arrows shotstopper has opened up on the disappointing draw against Wiliete, flagging the pitch as a factor in their unpleasant result.
“It was a difficult game; obviously they are a big team…, and I think they are top of the log in their league,” Goss told the Sundowns media team after the game.
“But the pitch also didn’t help us, with the rain just before the game, but I think we can take the 0-0 to Loftus [Versfeld Stadium].”
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The Bafana Bafana international, Goss, returned to Sundowns in the off-season after his loan deal with Siwelele FC expired, where he continued to showcase his status as one of the best goalkeepers in the PSL.
Since returning to his parent club, Goss has made two appearances in all competitions, and he will be looking for more regular minutes as matches come thick and fast for Sundowns.
Meanwhile, the Chloorkop-based side will be crossing their fingers that key players such as Aubrey Modiba and Williams are available for selection after missing the match against Wiliete due to injuries.
Teboho Mokoena was also stretched off the field after picking up an injury in the game against Wiliete.
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