Orlando Pirates coach Jose Riveiro admitted that the Buccaneers didn’t play well despite winning the Nedbank Cup trophy in Pretoria on Saturday evening.
The Soweto side came from behind to beat Sekhukhune United 2-1 in the Nedbank Cup final played at Loftus Versfeld in Pretoria. Tapelo Xoki and Terrence Dzvukamanja netted for Pirates while Sibusiso Vilakazi scored for Babina Noko.
“We spoke before the warm-up about how strong we have been in the last three months, competing in every tournament. We didn’t play well. Difficult to play the way we want in this environment,” the Spaniard remarked.
“The excitement is too high. We didn’t control the game. Then we conceded a goal. Then we controlled the game. When the game was about to go to half-time, the game changed. When the game was about to finish, to go to extra time, that was a great combination, excellent timing, excellent ball.”
Meanwhile, Babina Noko coach Brandon Truter commended his boys for giving their all against Pirates even though they ended up losing the match.
“Not much to say about the game. I think it was a good final for the supporters. Of course, we scored early. They scored the last goal and won it. I’m extremely proud of my boys with the strides made this season. Congratulations to Orlando Pirates,” Truter said.
Despite losing the match, Babina Noko are going to play in the CAF Confederation Cup next season as Pirates qualified for the CAF Champions League by virtue of finishing in second place behind DStv Premiership champions Mamelodi Sundowns.
