Orlando Pirates coach Jose Riveiro has noted his squad’s heightened motivation as they gear up for a CAF Champions League rematch with Jwaneng Galaxy.
The clash, set to take place in September, comes after the Botswana side stunned the Buccaneers in the second preliminary round of the same competition last season, leading to their unexpected exit.
Pirates secured their place in the next round on Friday with a commanding 4-0 victory over Disciples FC at Orlando Stadium.
The victory was sealed with an own goal from Disciples’ Andoniana Rakatondrazaka, followed by strikes from Relebohile Mofokeng, Patrick Maswanganyi, and Karim Kimvuidi, who all found the back of the net to ensure the South African side’s progression.
Reflecting on the upcoming challenge, Riveiro admitted that facing Jwaneng Galaxy again brought an added layer of motivation. “Wishes are for birthdays,” he quipped when asked if he had hoped for this rematch. “If Jwaneng is our next opponent, it’s an opportunity to face them again. We didn’t have a good time against them last time; they were really tough.
“There’s definitely a component of extra motivation for us.”
Riveiro also praised Jwaneng Galaxy’s performance last season, noting their strength at home and their ability to gather valuable points during the group stages.
“They (Jwaneng) did a fantastic job last season. They are very strong at home,” he said, emphasising the challenge that lies ahead.
The first leg of the tie is scheduled for 13 September in Botswana, with the return leg set to take place at Orlando Stadium a week later.
Pirates will be keen to reverse last season’s disappointment and advance to the group stages, a phase Riveiro is eager to experience as a coach. “Our responsibility is to try everything to see ourselves in the group stages. It’s something I would really like to experience,” he added.