Orlando Pirates coach Jose Riveiro welcomed the Premier Soccer League’s decision to adjust fixtures to support South African clubs in the CAF Champions League.
The league rescheduled games to give Pirates, Mamelodi Sundowns, and Stellenbosch FC ample time to prepare for Africa’s premier club competition.
Pirates’ match against Marumo Gallants FC was postponed, providing Riveiro’s side five days to recover and train ahead of their crucial encounter with reigning African champions Al Ahly on Saturday, 7 December at Orlando Stadium.
“In this period, it’s a luxury to have four days, plus recovery, we have five days to prepare as well as possible,” Riveiro said ahead of the match.
He acknowledged Al Ahly’s pedigree, calling them favourites to win the group, but expressed confidence in his team’s readiness.
“We are going to be tested at a very high level, and we’ll approach the week with a good attitude and motivation, aiming to deliver a strong performance on Saturday,” he added.
“Having this time to rest ensures there are no excuses—we must meet the competition’s demands and the challenges Al Ahly will present.”
Pirates enter the fixture buoyed by a 2-1 victory over CR Belouizdad in Algiers, a result that gave them an early edge in Group C.
Meanwhile, Al Ahly showcased their attacking prowess with a 4-2 triumph over Stade d’Abidjan in Cairo.
The showdown in South Africa promised to be a stern test for Pirates, who aimed to build on their strong start and stake a claim for progression in one of the continent’s toughest groups.