Pirates coach targets another cup and the scalp of Amakhosi

Orlando Pirates coach Jose Riveiro probably doesn’t need much additional motivation to beat Kaizer Chiefs in the semifinals of the Nedbank Cup at the FNB Stadium today.

This is, after all, a Soweto derby, a game that can win you the love of the supporters more than any other. And then there is the fact that Riveiro’s Buccaneers have lost both DStv Premiership encounters with Amakhosi this season.

But on top of all of this is a chance for the Pirates coach to not just beat Chiefs, but to lead Pirates to a second knockout trophy this season, which would be an impressive haul for the Spaniard in his debut campaign not just at the Buccaneers, but in South Africa.

Riveiro has already lifted a trophy with the Buccaneers after winning the MTN8 Cup earlier in the season.

And the Buccaneers are also chasing a Caf Champions League spot by finishing as runners-up in the DStv Premiership log.

Riveiro goes into the Soweto derby against Chiefs with the Buccaneers enjoying some good form. They registered six league wins in a row, before their draw this week with Royal AM.

The Buccaneers mentor knows that things will be different against Amakhosi, especially since it’s a cup clash.

“Everything that the team expressed on the field recently, going into the competition, I just feel comfortable and confident. We are in the last part of the season, we are playing finals. We feel strong and we are in a good moment, but it doesn’t matter because what is coming on Saturday is a different game, we all know,” said the Pirates coach during a press conference this week.

“It is a football game … but then, there are many more things around. There is an opportunity to play one more final together. It is a knockout game, we are not talking about three points anymore. That makes it much more special for everyone involved.”

On the other side of Soweto, Amakhosi coach Arthur Zwane is well aware of the Buccaneers’ form going into this match. But, the 49 year-old Glamour Boys mentor knows anything is possible whenever these two teams meet.

He also knows that his side have won their last five meetings with Pirates in all PSL competitions.

“Games like these are always difficult for everyone and unpredictable. Pirates are doing well, and we will be coming into this game as underdogs. But Chiefs will go to FNB Stadium with one thing on our mind, to go there and give our best and be victorious,” said Zwane.

Zwane went on to admit that his team hasn’t been consistent this campaign – they are now all-but out of the race for a spot in next season’s Champions League. However, what is important is to make sure that they win the match and reach the final of the Nedbank Cup.

“We have been blowing hot and cold this season, and the players know what is expected of them. This is one game that doesn’t need me as a coach to motivate them. We want to finish the season on a high.”