sportskeeda
Jose Riveiro, head coach of Orlando Pirates, has acknowledged the significant challenges his team will encounter in their upcoming Caf Champions League group stage match.
The primary challenge stems from facing the formidable Egyptian team, Al Ahly, who will visit Orlando Stadium on Saturday at 15:00. Al Ahly boasts the record for the most Champions League titles, having clinched the trophy 12 times, including last year’s victory.
As a highly experienced squad, Al Ahly’s presence at Orlando Stadium poses a considerable threat to the Pirates, particularly after they sustained a defeat last weekend to Stellenbosch, which ended their unbeaten streak in the Betway Premiership and resulted in them relinquishing their top position on the table.
Mamelodi Sundowns has now taken over the first place, courtesy of goal difference, following their 3-0 win against Sekhukhune United on the same Saturday.
In contrast, Pirates began their Champions League journey positively, securing an away victory against Algeria’s CR Belouizdad, with a score of 2-1 last week.
Riveiro mentioned, “Having four days — or five if you factor in recovery — to prepare for the game is a significant advantage.”
“Looking forward, the upcoming match will present a different level of challenges. We are preparing ourselves for a substantial test. Our focus this week is to maintain a positive mindset, motivation, and the ambition to deliver a strong performance against Al Ahly on Saturday.”
He emphasized the importance of recovery and preparation for this crucial match. “The additional rest days provide us a critical advantage, ensuring we have no excuses come Saturday and can perform at the level required by both the competition and our opponent.”
While the Pirates currently occupy the second position in the Betway Premiership, Riveiro maintains a long-term perspective. “We are on equal points,” he pointed out.
“We lost on Sunday, while they also faced a defeat to Polokwane City a few weeks ago. We need to concentrate on our own path; that’s what truly matters. Our focus was on Stellenbosch last Saturday, not Mamelodi Sundowns.”
“Our competition includes Sundowns, Stellenbosch, Kaizer Chiefs, and Golden Arrows — everyone. Every match is worth three points.
“Keep in mind that we’ve only played eight matches. While I understand that the December timeline implies we should have completed around 15 matches by now, leading to some concerns, it’s still only eight games at this stage, and there are teams that haven’t yet reached that number. It’s early in the season.
“There will be teams who may not be on your radar now, but will inevitably finish in the top three or four — that is a certainty.”
