sportskeeda
Orlando Pirates coach Jose Riveiro is optimistic that the Buccaneers could have achieved a more convincing victory had they taken advantage of their chances against Marumo Gallants on Sunday.
Pirates clinched a 1-0 win over Bahlabane Ba Ntwa in the Nedbank Cup semi-finals at Orlando Stadium, courtesy of an impressive first-half goal from Kabelo Dlamini, which has earned them a spot in the competition’s final.
This win marked the second time this season that the Buccaneers have triumphed over the Gallants, having previously defeated them 8-1 in December at the same venue.
Despite the success, Riveiro conveyed that his team should have finished with a larger margin, pointing to their many missed opportunities during the match.
“Football is a sport where scoring more goals than your opponent is essential to winning; this principle holds for every match, not just this one,” Riveiro commented.
“Our strategy is influenced by a variety of factors regarding quality, and we have the talent and capability to deliver a better standard of football and maintain consistency throughout the 90 minutes.
“I feel we showcased moments of quality in today’s game, as seen through the well-executed goal.
“We had distinct opportunities in the second half, but unfortunately, we were not fortunate enough to convert key chances in the dying minutes, which should have resulted in a 3-0 scoreline.”
Prior to this encounter, Pirates clashed with MC Alger and played a league match against Polokwane City, the former resulting in their advancement to the CAF Champions League semi-finals.
Riveiro acknowledged the challenging week the Buccaneers faced but noted they emerged successfully.
“It’s important to remember we played against Polokwane City away just a week ago, which was very taxing. Midweek, we faced another tough match against MC Alger, and today we had yet another demanding game before the final,” he elucidated.
“Considering all three matches, I believe Orlando Pirates’ performance during this stretch has been remarkable and unmatched.
“These have been difficult games across three distinct competitions, each with unique objectives and requirements. If we hadn’t attained good results, we could be in a position with no seasonal objectives left.
“We have navigated through what could have been the toughest week of the season. However, every game from now on will feel like a final, and every point is crucial as the season approaches its conclusion, with every team fighting for something significant.
“We recognize the challenges ahead, and the upcoming matches will be far from straightforward compared to earlier in the season. Thus, we find ourselves facing a new narrative with much at stake.”
The Buccaneers are gearing up to face their rivals, Kaizer Chiefs, in the Nedbank Cup final at Moses Mabhida Stadium on May 10.
Meanwhile, Amakhosi also emerged victorious against Mamelodi Sundowns in the semi-finals of this tournament on the same day.
