Pirates Coach Anticipates What to Expect from VFA

On Saturday, Orlando Pirates will face Venda Football Academy in the Nedbank Cup last 16 tie. Pirates head coach Jose Riveiro has explained the differences between VFA and All Stars, who Pirates beat 2-0 in the previous round.

Riveiro says that VFA are a more physical side than All Stars and play more directly, rather than focusing on possession. He believes that this will make the game more complex for Pirates, and if they don’t manage to get an early lead it could be a “rough” match.

“Against this team it’s going to be different, probably they’re gonna force us to build more from the back and our transitions will come from long distances, so it’s gonna be complex,” Riveiro said. “It’s not gonna be an easy game. If we manage to get the lead soon and dominate soon probably yes but if we don’t it’s gonna be rough. But we’re optimistic obviously, there’s no other scenario for us than going through to the next round,” he added.

Pirates will be hoping to progress to the next round and continue their impressive run in the Nedbank Cup.