The Brazilians suffered a frustrating exit from Africa's premier club competition after being eliminated by Angolan side Wiliete on the away-goals rule.

Miguel Cardoso's charges played to a goalless draw away from home before settling for a 1-1 draw in the return leg in South Africa last Friday.

The elimination was a major setback for Sundowns, but Cardoso believes his team's response to the disappointment will define their character as they turn their attention to domestic cup action.

"What is going to speak for Sundowns is the greatness that will come after this defeat... It's proof of character that we have to give. But that proof of character, I'm sure we are willing to do it already from tomorrow, that will speak about us, not this moment today," said Cardoso.

However, the Tshwane giants will face a side that proved difficult to overcome in the same competition last season.

Gallants eliminated Sundowns in the previous campaign after the teams played to a goalless draw, with the Bloemfontein-based outfit winning 7-6 in the penalty shootout to book their place in the next round.

Despite that previous success, Gallants head into Saturday's encounter struggling for form in the Betway Premiership. They sit at the bottom of the standings with just two points from eight matches and are yet to register a league victory this season.

Sundowns will hope to capitalise on their opponents' struggles as they seek a positive response following their continental disappointment.

The defending league champions are top of the Premiership standings with 23 points from nine matches and will be eager to maintain their domestic momentum.

Downs have already reached one cup final this season, although their MTN8 campaign ended in disappointment after a 2-0 defeat to Orlando Pirates.

With another knockout challenge now on the horizon, Sundowns will be determined to avoid a repeat of last season's Carling Knockout setback against Gallants and keep their hopes of silverware alive.

Malesela challenges Gallants to stay on track