Bay Coach: Pirates Is The Best Team On The Continent
Richards Bay coach Ronnie Gabriel has lauded Orlando Pirates as “arguably the best team on the African continent” following their impressive victory over Al Ahly in the CAF Champions League.
Pirates secured a 2-1 victory over the 12-time champions in Cairo last weekend, topping Group C and securing home advantage for the second leg of the quarterfinals.
As the Soweto giants shift their focus back to domestic competition, they will face Bay in the Nedbank Cup, a competition they have dominated in recent seasons, at King Zwelithini Stadium on Sunday (15:00).
Since Jose Riveiro was appointed as Pirates coach in June 2022, the team has remained undefeated in the Nedbank Cup having won this cup in the last two seasons.
This impressive record has led Gabriel to praise the Soweto giants, who currently sit second in the Betway Premiership, six points behind Mamelodi Sundowns with a game in hand.
“We are playing arguably the best team on the continent at present,” said Gabriel.
“But our team is well-prepared, motivated, and ready for this fixture. This match also provides an opportunity for some of our players to gain valuable experience and showcase their talent, as this cup often presents such opportunities.
“We are confident going into this fixture. The current fixture schedule allows us to field a strong team this week. We will be putting out a competitive squad capable of challenging Orlando Pirates.”
The Natal Rich Boys will have a new face on the bench with Papi Zothwane joining the coaching staff as head coach alongside new signing Mxolisi Macuphu, who was recently released by Royal AM.
Despite being heavily favored to progress, Pirates have faced challenges from Bay in recent seasons.
Bay knocked Pirates out of the Carling Knockout quarterfinals on penalties last season and also secured a league victory at Orlando Stadium during their battle against relegation.
Gabriel is encouraged by their past successes and believes they can cause another upset.
“We acknowledge Pirates’ current form and their impressive performances,” said Gabriel. “They are a team on the rise. However, our past encounters with Pirates have always been competitive. We have given them a run for their money. Last year, we defeated them at Orlando Stadium. We believe we have the squad and the ability to challenge Pirates again. While we respect them, we are not intimidated. We are confident in our ability to compete with Pirates on the day.”
