Unbeaten Pirates Take Confidence to Cairo – Riveiro Reflects on Draw

Orlando Pirates head coach Jose Riveiro expressed mixed emotions after his side’s 0-0 draw against Pyramids FC in the first leg of the CAF Champions League semi-final, played Saturday night at the iconic FNB Stadium in Johannesburg.

Despite the stalemate, the Spanish tactician highlighted the quality of football displayed by both sides and insisted the match deserved goals.

“Not a 0-0 Game” – Riveiro

“It was a really good game, well played by both sides, with two different approaches. I think the fans enjoyed it—there were no interruptions or time-wasting,” Riveiro said post-match.

The Pirates coach believed both teams created enough chances to break the deadlock and lamented the disallowed goals by VAR that prevented his side from taking a lead into the second leg.

Unbeaten Run and Growing Confidence

Orlando Pirates remain unbeaten in this season’s Champions League, a run that has seen them travel successfully across North Africa—including a win in Egypt. That experience, according to Riveiro, boosts their confidence ahead of the return leg in Cairo on April 25.

“If there’s a team ready to compete at this level, it’s us,” said Riveiro. “We’ve shown we can win anywhere.”

Final Dreams Still Alive

With a place in the final at stake, Pirates must now score in Cairo or hold for another goalless draw and win on penalties. Either way, Riveiro remains optimistic.

“This group is doing an incredible job. We are still unbeaten in Africa’s biggest competition. That says everything.”

Riveiro, who is in his final season with Pirates, could cap his continental campaign by reaching the final—before a domestic showdown with Kaizer Chiefs in the Nedbank Cup final on May 10.