Where does Jose Riveiro rank Orlando Pirates in Africa? - 'They are competing at the same level as the best on the continent'

Jose Riveiro believes Orlando Pirates are among the best clubs in Africa right now.

Being in the semi-finals of the Caf Champions League and enjoying an unbeaten run are what make the Spaniard think that his players should be ranked among the best on the continent.

“I think we are still unbeaten on the continent, and that tells you a lot about the way our team is competing,” said Riveiro when speaking to the media.

“We are unbeaten this season, not only in the Champions League, but if we are focused particularly on the Champions League, there is nothing else to say to these guys; they are doing an incredible job.

“They are competing at the same level as the best on the continent. Where do you decide who is the best? We are the best at that level right when it is time to compete," he added.

On their upcoming second leg duel against Pyramids in Egypt, Riveiro has promised that they will fight hard for a result that will see them advance.

The first leg encounter at the FNB ended in a 0-0 draw, and in Egypt, Pirates need a scoring draw or a straight win to reach the final.

“We will try again; we are going to Egypt, and after Sunday, we will be there on Friday and be ready to go again and try to get the result that we need, which are multiple because of the rules of the competition and the possible double value of away goals," he stated.

“This 0-0 result is tricky for both of us; it is not an easy one for us, and it is not an easy one for Pyramids. So, like I said, we can anticipate an interesting second leg, and trust me, we will do everything we can [to win the match]. If it’s not possible, we are going to the next one, and that is what we do,” he concluded.

With Riveiro's exit already confirmed, he has the best chance to leave Pirates at the top level.

The Sea Robbers are closer to yet another Champions League trophy and are on the verge of defending the Nedbank Cup yet again.

In the Premier Soccer League, their dream of dethroning Mamelodi Sundowns is still there, and that means their ambition of a successful campaign with multiple trophies is alive and well.

Currently, their focus is on the decisive duel against Pyramids set for April 25.

The Sea Robbers will resume the PSL campaign with a game against Sekhukhune United scheduled for April 30. They will also have back-to-back matches against Soweto rivals Kaizer Chiefs: a league match set for May 3 before a cup final on May 10.