Unstoppable Orlando Pirates cruise to seventh straight win as Soweto giants mark Jose Riveiro’s 100th game in command with victory over Richards Bay

Orlando Pirates’ quest to extend their winning streak continued as they faced Richards Bay at Orlando Stadium on Tuesday night.

From the onset, the Buccaneers took the initiative against the Natal Rich Boys.

Although the visitors initially matched the home side pound for pound, with Somila Ntsundwana causing problems for the Pirates' defense, they eventually let their guard down.

Brandon Truter's side eased off the pressure, allowing the Bucs to seize control of the match. It wasn’t long before Evidence Makgopa found the back of the net.

Following a shot from Thabiso Monyane outside the box, a mistake by goalkeeper Ian Otieno led to a rebound that Makgopa capitalized on.

As the second half began, Riveiro made a tactical change by introducing Kabelo Dlamini for Makhehleni Makhaula, a decision aimed at adjusting the team’s style of play and playing it safe after the midfielder had already been cautioned.

Lindokuhle Zikhali, who has been part of the DDC for the Durban side, came on as a second-half substitute, making his debut in senior team football.

The battle between Ntsundwana and Thabiso Sesane continued, with the defender managing to keep the Gqeberha-born striker at bay.

In the latter stages of the game, it seemed the home side was content with their solitary goal, opting for long-range shots that failed to trouble Otieno.

Monnapule Saleng had a chance to double the lead but was denied by an alert goalkeeper. The Bucs ultimately clinched a 1-0 victory, maintaining their position at the top of the log standings and a 100 per cent win record of seven wins from seven matches, while Richards Bay remained in 12th place.

Evidence Makgopa scored the winning goal and could have added more, marking his fourth league goal of the season.

Richards Bay has only won one game this season and is not in a comfortable position, suffering their second league loss of the season to Pirates.

No action for the Buccaneers this weekend as the Carling Knockout semi-finals take center stage.

Following that, the league will pause for the international break, after which Pirates will kick off their continental campaign with a crucial match against CR Belouizdad.

In the meantime, Brandon Truter and his team will shift their focus to the Carling Knockout, where they face Magesi FC in the semi-finals.

Richards Bay will be aiming to secure a place in their first-ever final in this competition, hoping to bring more silverware to the club.