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 defense.
Having drawn away, Sundowns will be aiming to secure a win in front of their home fans next weekend to advance to the knockout stage of the tournament.
After winning the Champions League last season, Sundowns is looking to produce impressive performances to defend the continental crown.
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 contributing factor to their unpleasant results.
“It was a difficult game; obviously they are a big team here, 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 returned to Sundowns in the off-season following the expiry of his loan deal with Siwelele FC, where he continued showcasing his status as one of the best goalkeepers in the PSL.
Since returning to his parent club, Goss has featured in two appearances in all competitions, and he will be looking for more regular playing minutes as matches are coming thick and fast for Sundowns.
Meanwhile, the Chloorkop-based side will be crossing their fingers to have their key players, such as Aubrey Modiba and Williams, available for selection after missing the match against Wiliete due to injuries, while Teboho Mokoena was stretched off the field after also picking up an injury.
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