sportskeeda
Orlando Pirates coach Jose Riveiro has managed expectations concerning the Soweto Giants’ chances of winning the league title. Despite a strong start to the season, he stresses the importance of focusing on immediate challenges instead of future possibilities.
The exceptional start to the 2024/25 Betway Premiership season has allowed the Buccaneers to set a new
club record by winning their first seven league games, surpassing the previous record from the 2002/03 season where they achieved six straight wins.
At present, Riveiro’s squad sits in second place in the league table, collecting 24 points from nine matches while holding a game in hand over Mamelodi Sundowns, who sit atop with 27 points.
Although there are indications that the Bucs could pose a serious challenge for the title against Sundowns, the coach emphasizes a pragmatic strategy, concentrating on one game at a time rather than contemplating a championship triumph later in the season.
“It’s important to set realistic goals and stay committed to our objectives; we recognize that achieving success requires us to create short-term targets,” Riveiro stated.
“While it’s natural for people to speculate about potential league winners, that’s not our concern right now,” Riveiro reiterated.
“Our main focus is on this weekend’s fixture against Magesi and gathering crucial points in January to help us progress in both the league and the Champions League.
“We strive to establish short-term objectives to keep ourselves on track and prevent distractions from what may happen months down the line, as that can lead to losing sight of what it takes to achieve our goals by the season’s conclusion,” he elaborated.
As the team braces for a hectic schedule in the coming months, Riveiro has urged his players to remain focused and dedicated, acknowledging the challenges presented by various competitions they are involved in.
“Training will resume on the 26th, and we will travel to Polokwane on the 28th for a match on the 29th, followed by ongoing engagements past January 1. We must fully commit or not at all; there’s no in-between,” remarked the Spanish coach.
“So far, the team has shown impressive dedication during this unique season; it’s December 24, and we are already on our ninth league match. Nevertheless, there are approximately 30 more games to be played across all competitions this season.
“Depending on our performance, this could extend to 35 matches, considering the demanding nature of the PSL and the CAF Champions League. We are aware of the commitment required, and everyone is focused on our goal, as that is the only path forward,” Riveiro concluded.
Following their remarkable 8-1 victory over Marumo Gallants on Tuesday, the Sea Robbers are set to close the year with a match against struggling Magesi FC at Old Peter Mokaba Stadium, hoping that Richards Bay can hold off Sundowns at home on Saturday.
