Amakhosi were hoping the goal from midfielder Edison Castillo would see them through in a match where the Soweto giants played in patches, but Downs got the final bite when defender Khuliso Mudau levelled matters at the death.

Ntseki could not hide his displeasure.

"Very disappointed, I think the overall sum up of the game was not what we wanted and what we planned but I think the less said about the first half, the better. When it comes to the second half, I think we applied ourselves very well. We were a bit more aggressive without the ball. We were a bit confident on the ball. There was movement of the ball that created some opportunities," Ntseki said.

The 1-1 result favours Sundowns going into the return leg on 23 September where the Brazilians will be hosts and with an away goal.

Chiefs should have protected their lead, says Ntseki.

"When you look at how we wanted to close the game down, being aware that there is six minutes added, the unfortunate part for us was not kicking the ball out to bring in players to close down the game.

Then, we gave away the goal at the wrong time and that goal I think is a goal that you'd never want to give away because you are fully aware that playing a first leg and a second leg, a goal at home puts you in a difficult position."

Finished Netherlands T20I Tri-Series