Orlando Pirates seek to break the deadlock against Disciples FC in ...

Orlando Pirates head coach Jose Riveiro has emphasised the importance of their match against Madagascar’s Disciples FC, stating his team is fully aware of what is at stake when they host the second leg of their CAF Champions League preliminary round at the Orlando Stadium Friday at 19:30.

Reflecting on the first leg, which ended in a goalless draw in Mauritius, Riveiro noted that while his players dominated possession, they were unable to convert their chances into goals, a situation they need to remedy to advance in the competition.

Speaking ahead of the crucial fixture, Riveiro acknowledged the challenge posed by Disciples FC, calling them a difficult opponent to play against.

“Another knockout game, second leg, starting 0-0, home game with the responsibility to make sure that we are in the next round. It’s not going to be a walk in the park.

“We’re playing against a good team, willing to run, willing to defend, willing to do everything in order to stay alive. We know it’s not going to be an easy game, but it’s not going to be an easy game for them either,” Riveiro remarked.

While acknowledging the strength of the opposition, Riveiro also stressed that Pirates are focused on winning, irrespective of the score margin.

“We are ready to make it through the next round. We are preparing ourselves to win the match. We don’t need to win the game 10-0. We just need to win the game. We are prepared; we’re playing at home; we’re confident.

“We know much more about the opponent than one week ago. We had a bunch of coaches and players extremely optimistic about each and every game. We’re going to try to offer a good game to our fans and make sure that we are in the next round,”

The Buccaneers, having been eliminated in the preliminary stages last season by Jwaneng Galaxy, are determined to avoid a repeat and secure their place in the group stages of Africa’s premier club competition. With a balanced squad that includes new signings Deano van Rooyen and Gilberto, who could make their debuts, and the potential return of Miguel Timm from injury, Pirates are well-prepared for the challenge.

POWER Sports