Orlando Pirates coach Jose Riveiro insists he was not shocked by Mamelodi Sundowns' loss against TS Galaxy - 'It is normal, human and acceptable'

On Tuesday, TS Galaxy became the second team to beat Mamelodi Sundowns in the Premier Soccer League this season after the initial defeat against Polokwane City.

Kamogelo Sebelebele scored the lone goal of the match to give the Rockets maximum points.

While Masandawana retained their top position with 42 points from 16 games, Galaxy jumped to fourth with 25 points after 17 outings.

Sundowns coach Miguel Cardoso argued that his team lost the game because of fatigue.

He further stated he resisted the temptation to tinker with his squad after the 4-1 win over Pirates a couple of days before the game.

However, Bucs coach Riveiro has stated beating Galaxy at the Mbombela Stadium is always a tough assignment, explaining why he was not shocked with the result.

“We all know how difficult it is to go to Mbombela, I think Galaxy last season was the best in home matches after Sundowns, if I’m not mistaken, it’s the same, playing games every, two, three days; teams like us, like Sundowns,” he told the media.

“So having a bad day, is normal, human, it’s acceptable and that’s the competition itself. Every time we play away, all the big teams, fighting for this trophy, must feel that pressure when playing away from home.

“I think having Galaxy in that form, Sekhukhune as well, it was a terrible game for us to play, Polokwane City, hopefully soon some other teams [can hit top form], it’s good for the league, competition and our football," Riveiro concluded.

Pirates have played 14 matches in the Premier Soccer League, meaning if they win them, they will be just three points behind Sundowns.

However, their main focus this weekend will be in the Nedbank Cup where they are set to host Baroka FC in the Round of 16.

After defending their MTN8 earlier in the season, Bucs hope to claim the Nedbank Cup as well.