Riveiro Demands More Despite Pirates’ Strong Form

Orlando Pirates coach José Riveiro acknowledges his team’s strong performance but emphasizes the need for continued improvement.
Pirates have shown significant progress under Riveiro, achieving their biggest win of the season thus far against Egyptian powerhouse Al Ahly in the CAF Champions League, securing top spot in Group C and advancing to the quarterfinals. This victory was followed by a convincing 3-1 win over Richards Bay in the Nedbank Cup round of 32 at King Zwelithini Stadium this past weekend.
The Buccaneers are the only team to have won silverware this season, claiming the MTN8 trophy for a record third consecutive time in October. They also hold second place in the Betway Premiership with 27 points from 11 matches, trailing leaders Mamelodi Sundowns by six points with a game in hand.
“Always, for all of us in our life,” said Riveiro when asked if there is room for improvement in this Pirates side.
“With the players, it is not an exception. The group, the team, it is not an exception. We are in a good space right now, in your eyes because we are getting good results.
“But the performances, the team is mature every game. These types of games (the one against Richards Bay) are also important for them to understand like I said before, there are moments when you cannot control the game.
“You just can’t because the opponent has nothing to lose, they have numbers, you are 2-0, you are tired, you just want to listen the last whistle and go home and it is not possible because it is still 30 minutes to play.
“You have to be there, otherwise you are not going to make it. That part of the process is very important especially dealing with young players because when they come to the top flight, it is a different story.
“What can I say, like I have said many times, I am a proud coach of each and all of them. Not only the youngsters, but seniors. I think they are fighting for the badge in the best of their capacities.
“I think Pirates this season has been consistence in terms attitude, in terms of performances and that is why we are where we are.
“The day we stop performing this way and fighting this way, we are not going to get the results.”
Pirates now turn their attention to the biggest fixture in South African domestic club football: the 181st Soweto Derby against Kaizer Chiefs at a sold-out FNB Stadium on Saturday at 15:30 PM.