Jose Riveiro confident Orlando Pirates will maintain 11-year record against AmaZulu

Pirates, who are working hard to defend their Nedbank Cup title, face Usuthu in Saturday’s quarter-final at the same venue they have already lifted two trophies under Riveiro.

The Buccaneers are also unbeaten against AmaZulu in their last 19 encounters stretching 11 years, and Riveiro wants to preserve this run.

"It's a good record, and I think we are part of that record already, so we will do everything in order to continue being part of that record after Saturday," said the Spaniard.

Furthermore, Pirates could complete a carbon copy of their 2022/23 season should they successfully defend their Nedbank Cup crown, as well as finish second in the DStv Premiership, but Riveiro insists they are a far cry from the team they were 12 months ago.

"It seems we are in the process of replicating the same thing we did one year ago, in terms of results, so if we reach the semi-final and then the final, and [win] that final and finish the [league] in second, it will look like we're in the same place in terms of results," he said.

"But in terms of process, we are not even close to being in the same space – that's how I feel. I feel there's been a permanent evolution and progression in the team.

"And there's still a long way to go, there are still some very tough games to play and manage to replicate the successful season in terms of results. But if you ask me about performance, the team is – right now – much better than one year ago."

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