Orlando Pirates head coach Jose Riveiro has made an open admission about rivals Mamelodi Sundowns ahead of the 2024/25 season.
The Buccaneers have high expectations this season, especially after successfully defending their two trophies last season – the MTN8 and the Nedbank Cup.
After finishing second in the DStv Premiership, they will be playing in other competitions, including the CAF Champions League.
Pirates are considered to be strong contenders for the Betway Premiership, having shown the potential to challenge Mamelodi Sundowns on occasion.
However, consistency has been a major difficulty for Riveiro’s team. As Pirates strive to improve their performance, they place a high value on consistency from start to finish.
While Rulani Mokwena’s departure may have an influence on Sundowns, Riveiro believes they will remain the benchmark in South African football.
He admitted that they measure their success against the Tshwane giants who won DStv Premiership and African Football League last season.
JOSE RIVEIRO’S ADMISSION ABOUT MAMELODI SUNDOWNS
“The team to beat is Sundowns, they are the current champions and we are all wishing to be there,” replied Riveiro.
“They’re the people everyone wants to beat. We must be humble, as the task is not easy.
“Our objective is to compete in every game and win every prize. We have been competitive in every cup game, which is why we have advanced to the last four finals of the MTN8 and Nedbank Cup.
“Our ambition is to manage to be competitive in every game in the league, but right now we are busy with the MTN8 and we have to focus on this next knockout game.”
Pirates will start their quest for a third consecutive MTN8 trophy when they host SuperSport United in the quarterfinal on Saturday, 3 August at Orlando Stadium at 6pm.