Jose Riveiro: Orlando Pirates Head Coach Sees Perfect Opportunity in Facing Kaizer Chiefs

• Coach Jose Riveiro believes it's the perfect time for the Soweto derby
• Both Orlando Pirates and Kaizer Chiefs have not been at their best form
• The Buccaneers are fifth in the DSTv Premiership and aim to capitalize

Orlando Pirates head coach, Jose Riveiro, believes tomorrow’s Soweto derby against Kaizer Chiefs in the DSTv Premiership presents the perfect opportunity to clinch a significant victory.

Despite recent inconsistencies, neither of the clubs have been in top form this season.

Chiefs have shown defensive strength by conceding only one goal in their last eight matches. However, their offensive prowess has been lacking, with just five goals scored during this period.

On the other hand, Orlando Pirates have struggled with only one win in their last five games.

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Riveiro expressed optimism during a press conference in Sandton, highlighting the importance of facing Amakhosi. He stressed the need for a quick turnaround after a disappointing result and the motivation to perform at their best.

“I think it's the perfect time because we're coming from a disappointing result, and it's good to have a game. It's a good opportunity to prove to ourselves that we can play good football and, again, hopefully, to make it so that our fans can get the second Derby of the season,” Riveiro said, as quoted by SNL24.

Both teams are gearing up for the derby with contrasting mindsets.

While Chiefs' coach, Cavin Johnson, faces mounting criticism, Riveiro focuses on building mental strength within his squad.

The Buccaneers are unbeaten this season and the Spaniard is determined to secure crucial points to challenge for a higher position in the Premier Soccer League (PSL). He has stressed the significance of each game at this crucial stage of the season, acknowledging the competition from SuperSport United and Cape Town City.

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"We go game by game but we know this is a crucial moment of the season. We can't miss our chances. We have to take that opportunity to narrow the gap and maybe leapfrog one of them,” Riveiro explained, as reported by Sowetan Live.

Chiefs star Keagan Dolly's message to Pirates

Sports Brief reported that Chiefs captain Keagan Dolly sent a message to Pirates ahead of the highly-anticipated encounter.

After 19 matches, the two arch-rivals are separated by one point in the DStv Premiership table.

Dolly said he was ready to take them down.