‘We need a bit of time because I think it is a cruel result,’ said the Pirates head coach.
Orlando Pirates head coach Jose Riveiro was left with a mixture of sadness and pride after seeing his team knocked out of the Caf Champions League by Pyramids FC on Friday night.
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Pirates twice led Pyramids at the June 30 Stadium in Cairo, and were still heading for the final until Fiston Mayele grabbed a winner for the home side six minutes from time.
Pyramids progress
A goalless draw in the first leg in Orlando meant the 3-2 victory was enough for Pyramids to take their place in the final against Mamelodi Sundowns.
“Congratulations to Pyramids for going to the final, and congratulations to our players for the fantastic performances they gave for all our fans during the season,” Riveiro told reporters after the match.
“It has honestly been second to none. We are out of the competition today after losing our first match in the whole tournament. It is a tough one to swallow, to digest. We need a bit of time because I think it is a cruel result.”
Relebohile Mofokeng put Pirates in front with a superb volley in the 41st minute but Mayele equalised on the stroke of half time.
Mohau Nkota’s brilliant run and strike again put Pirates ahead in the 52nd minute. But Ramadan Sochi’s fine header levelled the scores five minutes later. And Mayele then broke Pirates hearts.
Pirates’ Riveiro – ‘It was a top performance’
“We played a really good game,” added Riveiro.
“It was a top performance way from home against an excellent team. But we couldn’t control the two moments where we twice got the lead and they managed to equalise almost immediately.
“That was probably the key, that we couldn’t lead the game a bit longer, to create a bit of uncertainty for our opponent.
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“And then at the end of the game, when it is about to die (Pirates were heading for an away goals victory), one set piece is well executed and it takes them to the final. So it is a mixture of pride and sadness (that I am feeling).
“We are out of the competition but we did it in a good way and we all have to feel proud of ourselves.”
