Orlando Pirates head coach Jose Riveiro has downplayed running the same race as Mamelodi Sundowns in terms of expectations.
Pirates are firmly within the title race, level on points with Sundowns after eight games played with seven wins and one loss each.
They are both now competing in the group stages of Africa’s elite club competition for the first time together since the 2018/19 season.
“The title was a long time ago, we played a final in 2013, but as I said many times, we are making our first steps in this difficult competition together as a group, with experienced players in the Champions League and experienced coaches as well,” he said ahead of facing Stade d’Abidjan.
“So we’re exploiting a new space and at the same time trying to be very competitive as we are, competing in the league with good teams, the one you mentioned is one of them.
“Luckily for us, this season in Champions League as well, it’s a normal thing when you are in a club like Pirates and you have the opportunity to be a title contender in whichever competition you play.”
The two sides meet this afternoon at the Stade Félix Houphouët Boigny (18h00).
