Orlando Pirates head coach Jose Riveiro is delighted to have lifted the MTN8 Cup for the second time in a row after his charges clinched victory over Mamelodi Sundowns in the final on Saturday evening.
The Soweto giants beat Sundowns 3-1 on penalties following a goalless draw after extra-time at the Moses Mabhida Stadium.
Sipho Chaine was the hero for the night as he saved three penalties and walked away with the Man of the Match award.
JOSE RIVEIRO REACTS TO MTN8 TITLE WIN
It was the Spanish tactician’s third domestic cup win after sealing the double: the MTN8 and Nedbank Cup. “I feel proud, proud of the performance of the team on the night,” said Riveiro.
“It was difficult, not only because of the level of the opponent, we all know, but also it was a pity for both teams as we had to fight with difficult conditions to play football.
“The worst conditions you can find to play football terrible wind. It affected how both teams played; it was a different game when playing against the wind and when the wind was in our favour. None of the teams managed to play consistently the way they played due to that.
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“But it was a good performance by the team; Sipho Chaine was exceptional, Olisa Ndah, coming off the bench 10 months injured, Tapelo Xoki as usual, I think the full backs did well, even midfielders, Thabang Monare, Miguel Timm, they were a bit tired but did well.
“In general, I think it was that kind of performance that probably you will not remember because of the football that we displayed in the 90 minutes.
“…But in the final, you really need to want it, and if you want it badly, more than the opponent, then you will be more closer. So I’m extremely proud to be Orlando Pirates coach.”