EXCLUSIVE: Diawara believes Stade Malien can still mount a recovery against Mamelodi Sundowns
The Bamako outfit endured a frustrating 3-0 loss in the initial quarter-final encounter at Loftus Versfeld Stadium.
Even though they showed promise early on in Pretoria, the South African team dominated proceedings after Khuliso Mudau broke the deadlock in the 33rd minute by converting a close-range effort from Arthur Sales cross.
Brayan Leon made it two soon into the second half, with substitute Iqraam Rayners completing the victory towards the end.
While the South Africans carry a substantial lead into Sundays second leg, the ex-Stade Malien player maintains that a turnaround remains possible at Stade du 26 Mars.
"We (Stade Malien) gave everything in their first-leg clash against Mamelodi Sundowns, but things did not go according to plan as three goals were conceded," Diawara told Flashscore.com.
"Honestly, the result came as a surprise, especially when you consider how solid they have been defensively throughout the tournament.
"Despite the setback, the spirit within the camp remains strong. If Sundowns were able to score three goals on their home soil, there is every reason to believe we can respond in kind.
"No doubt, it will not be easy against such a strong and experienced South African side, but all hope is not lost.
"There is a firm sense of determination among the players and during the week, I spoke with the coach and some players and they fully understand what is at stake and are ready to fight back like a wounded animal."
The CAF Champions League trophy has avoided the Malian club for years, and when Diawara was questioned on whether this squad could end that drought by defeating the South Africans, he responded: "Football is not decided by predictions but by what happens on the pitch.
"Stade Malien are a strong side, but it may be too early to talk about title chances with such a crucial match ahead.
"Even if we manage to get past Mamelodi Sundowns, each game must be taken seriously remain disciplined and respect every opponent, and approach each game with the right mindset.
"Only by doing so can they stay on track and give themselves the best chance of making history for themselves and bringing joy to the people of Mali."
Meanwhile, manager Miguel Cardoso has cautioned his Mamelodi Sundowns squad to avoid overconfidence, even with their three-goal cushion.
The Portuguese coach highlighted footballs unpredictability and advised his players not to assume victory before the return fixture.
"Champions League is an open game. I was taking a look, Sporting Portugal lost 3-0 in the first leg of the conference league and in the extra time was winning 4-0 at home.
"So, football shows us everyday stories that can be done and changes of games that can be done. We cannot think things are done; they should be controlled by us. So, the Champions League is not a story that is written yet."