Kaizer Chiefs head coach Stuart Baxter insists that he has "learned a lot" from their MTN8 quarter-final defeat against rivals Mamelodi Sundowns on Sunday.
"It was our first game against opposition in the sharpest of circumstances. I learned a lot from the game. I hope the players have learned a lot," Baxter told SuperSport TV after the match.
"We've got to get better, and we will get better. If the players can give me 20 percent better than that, then I think we will be reckoned with."
Amakhosi came from behind level matters at 2-2 and take Masandawana all the way to a penalty shootout on Sunday at the Lucas Moripe Stadium.
Talisman Peter Shalulile gave Sundowns an early lead before the ever-reliable Themba Zwane added the second.
The Brazilians could have added a third and fourth goal, but the Glamour Boys revived their chances to advance to the semi-final through Bernard Parker before the half-time whistle.
Former Sundowns star Khama Billiat equalized in the second stanza courtesy of a Keagan Dolly assist.
Both sides had chances to win the match, but, in the end, it went to a penalty shootout as veteran shot-stopper Kennedy Mweene came to Sundowns' rescue with four saves to ensure a 2-1 win for the home side.
"I thought at the beginning of the game we were well off it," Baxter continued.
"Sundowns took command with possession. The timing of our press was wrong. Positional play at the back was wrong. And our possession when we won the ball was hurried and nervous.
"Going a goal down doesn't help, but I felt that gradually we started to play a little bit better. We found a little bit of rhythm and then came the second goal.
"After that, I think we had a period of 15 minutes where we played well, and we scored a goal in that time.
"And going into half-time, I thought if we could change a few things, we can make a fist of it, and the boys did, and I think they played much better second-half.
"The balance of the team was better. We defended a little bit stronger and on the back of that even our attacking play."
Baxter added: "I was pleased with that, but then extra-time, there's fatigue at this time of the year, so neither team plays their best.
"We were looking for a transition and set plays, and they were looking for longer possession. Going to penalties, it is what it is.
"I think Sundowns held their nerve better than we did, and I wish them all the best in the semis."
Sundowns will take on Golden Arrows in the semi-finals, while Swallows FC meet Cape Town City.