Orlando Pirates coach Jose Riveiro says it is hard to compete for the DStv Premiership title, suggesting that Mamelodi Sundowns hardly “lose matches.”  

Riveiro was speaking at the press conference on Wednesday as Pirates are looking at defending the Nedbank Cup trophy, as they visit AmaZulu in the quarterfinal at the Moses Mabhida Stadium on Saturday (18:00).  

Sundowns are just a few matches away from defending their league title and seventh successive, sitting pretty at the top of the table. 

“We got 54 points (last season and finished second) and usually you win the title in South Africa,” said Riveiro when asked about the inconsistency they have had. 

“But we are competing with points machine, they don’t lose,” much to the laughter from the media behind in the background. 

“Do you understand? I don’t know where we are going to finish this season. Probably we are going to pass that number, I’m sure we can do it, we can be close. But again, …. You can analyze the reasons why; it is past of your business.  

“We are trying but it is difficult, very difficult to get close for many different reasons. It is very difficult to get close and we are getting there.” 

Pirates, having blasted Golden Arrows 7-1 in the league match last weekend, are third in the table with 37 points after 23 matches.