Keanu Cupido confirms playing through pain in Champions League final

The 28-year-old defender is understood to have dislocated his shoulder in Sundowns’ Betway Premiership clash against Kaizer Chiefs less than two weeks ago, a setback that ruled him out of the two matches that followed.

Cupido’s inclusion in Sunday’s continental final came as a surprise, but the defender has since confirmed that the pain was being carefully managed. 

"I had to take an injection, but I'll do anything for the badge. If the team needs me I have to be there through pain or whatever else, but I'm happy to be on the field again."

READ: Miguel Cardoso backs healthy Downs squad to deliver Champions League glory

Cupido agreed with sentiments that Sundowns could have put more daylight between them and AS FAR had they been more clinical. 

The second leg will not be a walk in the park, he added. 

"It wasn't that tough. I think we made it difficult cult for ourselves after getting good opportunities to kill the game off, but at the end of the day we still won and keeping a clean sheet was the most important thing for us.

"We know that they're a very good team and they have their supporters behind them, but if we stand together and unite as a team it'll be easier that side."

The centre back further credited the Moroccans as a quality team that should not be underestimated – especially ahead of the second leg.

Meanwhile, Cupido also reacted to comments by Sundown’s coach Miguel Cardoso that the player deserves to be considered for the Bafana Bafana squad heading to the FIFA World Cup in the Americas. 

"It's up to the coach. If I do get chosen I'll be honoured and if I don't I will also be happy for the other guys who are going to the World Cup."