Medeama dominated large spells and created a host of chances but were undone by a clinical counter-attack from the Congolese giants. The loss leaves the Ghana Premier League side facing an uphill battle to reach the next round.
Tanko, however, is adamant the tie is far from over.
"That is the only option we have; we have to go there to get a win so that we go to the next round," Tanko told reporters after the game.
"It's not easy, but I'm sure if we go there they will open up. They will not play a defensive game like today, so definitely we have a chance to win over there."
It was a bold accusation against one of Africa's most decorated clubs, who were happy to absorb pressure in Ghana before striking on the break.
Tanko dismissed suggestions that a lack of continental experience cost his team. For him, the problem is clear: goals.
According to the former Ghana international, the finishing issues that have plagued Medeama since their pre-season camp in Abidjan resurfaced again. He maintains it is a psychological barrier, not a technical one.
"The good thing is that they are scoring in training, and we hope that they will transfer it to the game," he said.
Medeama defender Jacob Amu Mensah admitted emotion got the better of the team late on. He conceded their desperation to score left them structurally vulnerable to Mazembe's decisive break.
Medeama must now produce something special in Lubumbashi - one of the most hostile grounds in African football. If Mazembe do open up as Tanko expects, Medeama will get chances. They simply must take them.
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