Khuliso Mudau (34'), Brayan Leon Muniz (54') and Iqraam Rayners (74') were all on target at Loftus Versfeld last Friday in a dominant display by the Betway Premiership side.
Njoya felt his side didn't play their natural game in South Africa but is confident of a better showing when the two sides clash at Stade du 26 Mars, where Stade Malien have won all five of their matches in the Champions League this season.
"There is a lot of regret because we didn't play our game and we gave Sundowns an easy win," Njoya said on FARPost.
"We also have to say that we had players injured and some were suspended but we have them all back in Bamako.
"We will turn the situation around. We topped our group that had Esperance, Petro de Luanda and Simba FC so we're not just tourists but against Sundowns we didn't turn up.
“Even a big team like Brazil lost 7-1 to Germany. So, it happens but what I regret is that we didn't show up as we should have. Normally we could have done better but in Bamako, we will do better and show who we are.”
Mamelodi Sundowns will head into a high-stakes CAF Champions League quarter-final second leg against Stade Malien knowing their 3-0 advantage may count for little in a hostile Bamako atmosphere on Sunday.
Rulani Mokwena has pushed back against claims that money influenced his surprising departure from MC Alger to Al Ittihad, instead pointing to ambition and purpose.
Mamelodi Sundowns coach Miguel Cardoso has warned his side against getting too comfortable at the top of the Betway Premiership standings.
Mamelodi Sundowns moved two points clear at the top of the Betway Premiership standings after beating Marumo Gallants 3-1 at Loftus on Tuesday.
