“We Were Defending Solid, Well” – Riveiro Applauds Pirates’ Grit in Soweto Derby Triumph
Orlando Pirates showcased their fighting spirit in a tense and thrilling 2-1 Soweto Derby victory over Kaizer Chiefs at a packed FNB Stadium, with head coach José Riveiro praising his side’s resilience and control after a slow start.
In a fiery opening to the Soweto Derby, Chiefs struck within the first two minutes through Congolese attacker Glody Lilepo. The FNB Stadium erupted as the early goal gave Amakhosi an immediate edge, forcing Pirates to chase the game from the onset.
Makgopa Levels the Score as Pirates Regain Composure
Despite the early blow, Pirates remained composed. They began to find their rhythm midway through the first half, and in the 24th minute, Mohau Nkota’s assist set up Evidence Makgopa for the equaliser. The goal shifted momentum, helping the Buccaneers wrest back control in a match that hung in the balance.
Jose Riveiro: “We Started to Get Territorial Control”
Reflecting on the game’s progression, coach José Riveiro said, “A really good football game, we showed emotions in the first minute, almost until the last one, without fouls. Slow beginning of the game from our side… but little by little we started to get a little bit of control, territorial control.”
As the half wore on, Pirates tightened up defensively, although Yusuf Maart almost restored Chiefs’ lead just before the break. Fortunately for Pirates, goalkeeper Sipho Chaine denied him with a crucial save.
Riveiro introduced Kabelo Dlamini at halftime in place of Paseka Mako. Dlamini injected much-needed urgency and nearly scored soon after his introduction, signalling Pirates’ intent in the second stanza.
Mofokeng and Hotto Combine for the Winner
The decisive moment came when Relebohile Mofokeng, linking up with Deon Hotto, broke through the Chiefs defence to slot home the winning goal. The teenager’s clinical finish sealed all three points and extended Pirates’ recent dominance in the derby.
Riveiro Praises Second-Half Control and Defence
“Luckily, we managed to equalise; it was very important to neutralise the lead soon in the first half,” said Riveiro. “In the second half we were close to the football that we’ve been playing this season… more chances created and the possibility to score a second goal.”
Riveiro was equally proud of his side’s defensive effort: “I don’t remember any intervention from Chaine in the last part of the game… that means we were defending solid, well.”
Soweto Derby: Buccaneers March On
This hard-fought derby win keeps Orlando Pirates on course in the league and reaffirms their status as one of the country’s top teams. With tactical discipline, calm under pressure, and flashes of individual brilliance, the Buccaneers once again proved their mettle on the biggest stage. All eyes will now be on the Nedbank Cup final to see if Pirates can shut down AmaKhosi for the second consecutive weekend.
Also read: Nedbank Cup Final Tickets: Here’s How You Can Purchase the Tickets