By Michael Madyira
After a shaky start to the season, Orlando Pirates have set themselves up for what could be a memorable season.
The Buccaneers advanced to the Nedbank Cup quarter-finals with a convincing 4-0 win over National First Division side Hungry Lions at Orlando Stadium on Saturday.
With the Premier Soccer League title seemingly out of their reach, Saturday’s result saw Pirates handing themselves an opportunity to finish the season with a double, having won the MTN8 earlier in the season.
Currently second on the PSL table and on course to secure a CAF Champions League spot for next season, the Soweto giants have entered a critical stage of their season.
Pleasing coach Jose Riveiro is the fans’ belief in them, backing his men at such a crucial phase of the term.
“It was an atmosphere [against Hungry Lions] that was not there in the last two games against Stellenbosch and Cape Town Spurs because we did not play the way they want to see us play football,” said Riveiro after witnessing his charges slaughter Hungry Lions.
“When the atmosphere is like this, it is much easier to play well.”
Having edged closer to successfully defending the Nedbank Cup, the Sea Robbers could be gaining confidence to tackle any opponents.
Despite the possibility of meeting teams like Mamelodi Sundowns and SuperSport United in the latter stages of this competition, it is a challenge Riveiro and his men have geared themselves for.
Next on their schedule is a 30 March PSL trip to Sekhukhune United as they try to maintain second position.
Maximum points are crucial for the Buccaneers to see off the challenge of their nearest league rivals SuperSport United, Stellenbosch and Cape Town City.
Pictured above: Orlando Pirates players celebrating Monnapule Saleng’s goal against the Hungry Lions.
Image source: Orlando Pirates
