Speaking after the match in neutral Rwanda, Cardoso felt Sundowns had done enough to avoid defeat but were punished for failing to capitalise during key moments.

"We started the game quite well and created the opportunities we expected," Cardoso told the media during his post-match press conference.

"But when you don't take your chances at the right time, you suffer."

The loss leaves Sundowns on five points in Group C, with their qualification fate now partially out of their hands. They will be watching Sunday's clash between MC Alger and St Eloi Lupopo closely, hoping former coach Rhulani Mokwena's side can deliver a result that keeps the Tshwane outfit in the top two.

Despite the setback, Sundowns still have work to do in the group, with a trip to the DR Congo to face Lupopo and a home encounter against MC Alger still to come.

However, the defeat again underlined their struggles away from home in the competition, having won just one of their last 10 CAF Champions League matches on the road.

Cardoso explained that his tactical approach was built around exploiting Al Hilal's aggressive pressing and high defensive line, prompting changes in the attacking areas.

"We expected space on the opposite side of the pitch and selected players who could attack behind the defence. In the first 20 minutes, we created three clear chances," he said.

As the game progressed, Sundowns lost control, playing too directly and allowing Al Hilal to settle into their preferred rhythm.

"We played too quickly without structure and gave energy to our opponents," Cardoso admitted.

While disappointed, the Sundowns coach praised Al Hilal's resilience, especially given their ongoing challenges away from home due to civil unrest in Sudan.

"We created enough chances to at least draw the game. Not taking them was the difference."

SuperSport United CEO clears up Christian Saile confusion