sportskeeda
Orlando Pirates head coach Jose Riveiro is counting on his team’s outstanding away performance and their unbeaten record in the CAF Champions League as they prepare for their crucial trip to Egypt.
The Buccaneers have built an impressive unbeaten streak of 13 matches in this season’s Champions League. This record is something they aim to maintain as they travel north for the second leg of their semi-final clash against the formidable Pyramids team at the 30 June Air Defence Stadium on Friday.
During the first leg semi-final at FNB Stadium on Saturday, Pirates faced significant pressure from Pyramids. Although often on the back foot, they managed to secure a clean sheet – a vital aspect as they gear up for the second leg.
While they faced a rigorous defensive challenge on Saturday, their away performance in this Champions League season has been remarkable. They have celebrated victories against Al Ahly in Egypt, CR Belouizdad in Algeria, and MC Alger, also from Algeria.
However, Riveiro acknowledges that facing Pyramids poses a different level of difficulty compared to their previous opponents, and his team will need to deliver an extraordinary effort to overcome them and secure a place in the final.
“Our unbeaten record on the continent reflects the incredible performance of our team,” Riveiro remarked.
“We have not experienced a loss this season, and particularly in the Champions League, our players are excelling.”
“They are competing at the same level as the elite in Africa. The determination of who stands at the top is defined by our performance under pressure.”
“We’re returning to Egypt; we’ll be there on Friday, prepared to achieve the results we need, which are crucial due to the competition regulations and the added significance of away goals.”
“This goalless result creates a complex situation for both teams; it’s tough for us, and for Pyramids as well. As I said, we anticipate an exciting second leg, and trust me, we will strive to win the match. If we can’t, we will move on to our next challenge; that’s our mindset.”
A scoring draw in the second leg would be enough for Orlando Pirates to progress to the Champions League final, where they will face the winner of the other semi-final matchup between Al Ahly and Mamelodi Sundowns.
Their second leg is scheduled to occur at Cairo International Stadium after a goalless draw in the first leg at Loftus Stadium on Saturday.
