Jose Riveiro hails Orlando Pirates for displaying patience in triumph

Orlando Pirates manager Jose Riveiro lavished praise on his squad for their commendable patience in the wake of their triumphant encounter against Stellenbosch on Sunday afternoon.

In a gripping MTN8 semi-final first leg showdown, the Soweto side seized the advantage, mounting a spirited comeback to vanquish Stellenbosch 2-1 at Athlone Stadium.

Coach Steve Barker's charges managed to breach the deadlock in the dying moments of the first half when Ismael Toure struck a crucial blow. However, it took the Buccaneers a full 66 minutes to finally find the net, with Zakhele Lepasa equalizing, and Deon Hotto secured the winner for the Sea Robbers in stoppage time.

Watch: Highlights of Orlando Pirates vs Stellenbosch in the MTN8

Expressing his elation with the outcome, Riveiro, in a post-match interview with SuperSport TV, lauded his team's performance while acknowledging their sluggish start. He acknowledged, "I'm delighted with the result, but I'm more pleased with the overall team performance. We endured a challenging beginning to the game. Stellenbosch outperformed us in the early stages, pressing us relentlessly during the first half."

"We struggled to exploit the space behind their central midfield and were uncomfortable in possession. However, I believe that when our breakthrough arrived, the red card they received altered the dynamics, essentially marking a fresh start for us," Riveiro observed.

"As we were on the cusp of scoring, the goal we conceded handed Stellenbosch the advantage. In the second half, we threw everything into the game. We narrowed the gap, displayed remarkable patience, and wrestled control of the match. We anticipated counter-attacks but, overall, I believe it was an admirable performance," he added.

Riveiro went on to emphasize the significance of their patience, especially in light of their initial struggles to breach Stellenbosch's resolute defence, which was backed by a wall of defenders.

"Patience was the key. I don't relish playing against ten men, particularly against a formidable, well-organized side like Stellenbosch. Believe me, it doesn't feel like you have a numerical advantage because they adeptly plug the gaps," he remarked.

"You get the sense that, with an extra man, you need to score three goals within five minutes, which forces you into transition and uncomfortable situations. In that regard, I think we executed our game plan splendidly," he concluded.

Riveiro expressed his pride and happiness for his team and the fans, highlighting their rare victory in Cape Town and underlining the significance of the achievement during his tenure with the Pirates.

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