Orlando Pirates coach Jose Riveiro addressed the media ahead of their Nedbank Cup clash against Baroka FC at Orlando Stadium, emphasising the team’s recovery from their recent setback against Mamelodi Sundowns and their unwavering focus on defending their title.
Riveiro acknowledged the physically and mentally demanding week the team has endured, culminating in the heavy 4-1 defeat against title rivals Mamelodi Sundowns. He stressed the importance of rest and recovery for his players, stating that the week had been used for reflection and analysis of their performance.
“It was a tough week, but we have used the time to recover and understand where we need to improve,” Riveiro commented.
Despite the previous result, Riveiro insisted that the team is fully focused on the task at hand against Baroka FC. He expressed respect for their opponents, acknowledging their quality and the potential for an upset if Pirates are not at their best.
Baroka is the only club in history to reach the Nedbank Cup semifinals as a third, second and first-tier team, and defeated the Buccaneers in penalties in the decider of the 2018 Telkom Knockout, one of South African football’s greatest upsets.
The reigning Nedbank Cup champions are determined to retain their title, and Riveiro reiterated their ambition in the competition. He sees every game as an opportunity to showcase their talent and work towards achieving their goals.
Dismissing any notion of added pressure as defending champions, Riveiro explained that the team approaches every game with the same level of expectations.
“I know I’m a little bit bored when I’m talking here but that’s the process, trust me there’s nothing, we don’t do three-hour meetings trying to you know feel sorry about ourselves.”
The Spanish mentor also emphasised that the team is solely focused on their own objectives and not influenced by external factors or comparisons to other teams.
“We are running our own race,” he asserted. The coach also touched on the importance of competing on all fronts and the team’s desire to succeed in every competition they participate in. He expressed satisfaction with the team’s progress this season and their determination to continue improving.
“I read somewhere a few weeks ago or days ago that we have if not the best, one of the best let’s say beginning of the seasons ever in the club in terms of victories and points.”
Riveiro’s comments suggest a focused and determined Orlando Pirates side heading into the Baroka FC match. While acknowledging the challenges of their recent form, the team appears ready to bounce back and fight for their place in the next round of the Nedbank Cup.