Heatwave no factor against Ahly: Riveiro

The weather will play no part in helping Orlando Pirates in their encounter against African giants and CAF Champions League record winners, Al Ahly, at Orlando Stadium on Saturday, according to Bucs’ coach, Jose Riveiro.

The two giants meet in match day 2 of the CAF Champions League’s group C, with both looking for a second victory in as many matches.

Riveiro believes the Egyptian team, who are aiming to win this competition for a third time in row, are used to playing in scorching hot weather.

“I think they’re used to the heat in Cairo,” he said. “It’s going to be tough for both teams to play at 3pm. It’s going to be 34-35ºC in Orlando and I hope the teams won’t be affected.”

“We’re going to play the game in the same conditions, Ahly and ourselves, so it will not be an excuse for anyone. Football is played outdoors in different conditions. Sometimes it’s raining, sometimes it’s windy, but when you want to win games consistently you must adapt to the situation,” he added.

Riveiro was asked if Bafana Bafana striker Percy Tau could be a threat to Pirates because of his knowledge of the environment and some of the Bucs players he will face.

Of late, Tau has not been a regular starter in Marcel Koller’s team and may even start Saturday’s game on the bench.

“Our plan is not really to focus on any individual,” he said. “It’s never been like that — and this time is not going to be exceptional.” Written by Ntsako Mkhari