History follows Orlando Pirates as they return to a familiar ground in Abidjan

Pirates play Stade D’Abidjan at the same venue in a CAF Champions League group stages game this evening, and memories of 1995 are still with the Ivorians.

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Back then, the Bucs shocked hosts Asec Mimosas to win the second leg 1-0, and head coach Jose Riveiro says they will live up to the expectations.

''We are representing Orlando Pirates wherever we go. We are the first team in our country to get this star here. It is talking about the dimension of the country, but we are looking to  make our own history. We are playing today and we understand how difficult the task will be,'' said  Riveiro.

Pirates have had a promising start to their campaign in the group stages, with four points from a possible six as compared to the hosts, who have lost both their opening matches.

But Riveiro says they are not reading much into that.

''We had a tough start in the group stages. One game away, where we managed to perform well, and played against one of the best in the continent Al Ahly. But we are hoping to do our best against Stade D’Abidjan,'' added Riveiro.

In their first two matches, Stade D’Abidjan lost 4-2 and 1-0 to Al Ahly and CR Belouizdad, respectively. Bucs managed to get an away win in Algeria and a goalless draw against the Red Devils last weekend.

Riveiro feels the Ivorians shouldn’t be looked down upon in Group B.

''Well, I don't usually comment on what people are saying on social media first of all, but to answer your question - I don't believe that Stade D’Abidjan deserves to be in zero points after analysing them after their two first games. But we meet for the 90 minutes and we will try to be the best ones, but it doesn't mean it is going to be an easy task,'' he expressed.

Having last won the league title more than 12 years ago back home, Pirates have an uphill battle of competing on two fronts in the Champions League and against a dominant Mamelodi Sundowns side in the Betway Premiership.

Riveiro says they have to live up to the standards of being title contenders.