Jose Riveiro felt proud after Orlando Pirates triumphed over Mamelodi Sundowns in the Betway Premiership last Sunday. The Spaniard indicated that it would be advantageous for South African football if the two giants were to meet again this season.
Over the past two seasons, these teams have been the top two in South African football, with Mamelodi Sundowns standing out as the best team in the country, followed by Orlando Pirates. Although the teams will not face each other again in the league, they may encounter one another in other cup competitions.
Jose Riveiro Hopes To Can Cross Paths
Mamelodi Sundowns and Orlando Pirates are both competing in the Nedbank Cup, with the Buccaneers having already secured their place in the semi-finals to face Marumo Gallants. Sundowns still have a quarter-final match against Sekhukhune United to navigate.
Furthermore, both clubs are in the quarter-final stages of the CAF Champions League.
“Hopefully this is not the last time we meet this season,” Riveiro said.
“We still have the opportunity to meet again in two competitions and if that happens it’s going to be a really good atmosphere for South African football.”
Last season, Orlando Pirates and Mamelodi Sundowns met an incredible four times: twice in the Betway Premiership and in the finals of the MTN 8 and Nedbank Cup, with Jose Riveiro leading the Buccaneers to cup glory in both matches.
The Spaniard will seek similar fortunes this season, but this time he will have the enthusiasm of the Orlando Pirates Youth Team players at his disposal.
Riveiro Pleased with The Progress of Young Players
Nineteen-year-old Mbekezeli Mbokazi was named Man of the Match following the victory against Mamelodi Sundowns due to his outstanding performance. He received accolades for effectively marshalling the threatening Lucas Ribeiro, who hardly had a chance to make his mark in the game.
“So, (I’m) happy with the development of the team today for our young players, imagine what it means for these types of games,” Jose Riveiro expressed.
“This type of exigence in the game for Mbokazi, for Nkota, for Rele as well and Boitumelo Radiopane.
“It’s all good, the result is fantastic, obviously we are here to get good results and that’s what everybody is expecting from us.” He added.
Can The Youth Players Lead Jose Riveiro to Success?
With Orlando Pirates still very much in contention for the Betway Premiership title, they will rely on the youth players for support. The Buccaneers will need all their players to perform at their best, as they remain in both the Nedbank Cup and the Betway Premiership this season.
Can José Riveiro depend on his youth players to secure success this season?
Let us know by leaving a comment below, or send a WhatsApp to 060 011 021 1.
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