The Spaniard concedes his team is not yet at its best but exuded confidence it will do enough to advance.
Orlando Pirates coach Jose Riveiro is not anticipating an easy outing against SuperSport United on Saturday in the MTN8 quarter-final fixture to be staged at the Orlando Stadium.
The Sea Robbers are coming into the game hoping to go all the way and win it for the third time in as many seasons. However, the Gavin Hunt-led team will not be a walk in the park for Bucs as seen in the 2023/24 season when they forced their hosts to a draw at home in the Premier Soccer League after claiming maximum points at home.
The Spaniard is confident he will overcome the Swanky Boys if their pre-season record is anything to consider, but he insisted his players have not yet hit the top gear.
‘It will be a difficult game'
“SuperSport are a very tough opponent, it's a fact; we played them twice last season and we couldn't beat them,” Riveiro recalled the most recent meetings.
“We lost in Polokwane and managed to get a point in Orlando in the last game of the season, so we know it's going to be a difficult game but at the same time, we know where we want to go. But I think we are in a good space, trying to find the best way to start the season well by going to the MTN8 semi-final by overcoming SuperSport.
“It was a short preseason, full of games and tough preparations. We had the opportunity to travel for two weeks, where we got a proper impression of where the team is right now. So, we are good to go.
“Nobody is in his prime, nobody is in his best.”
All teams playing in the MTN8 this season will receive R1 million as participation fee, while the winner will walk home R10 million richer.
