As the much-anticipated Soweto Derby between Orlando Pirates and Kaizer Chiefs looms on Saturday, February 1, there is one aspect of the Buccaneers' play that could prove to be a game-changer, especially if things don't go their way on the day.
Orlando Pirates' ability to score from long range has been one of the standout features of their campaign so far this season. With an impressive tally of eight goals from outside the box, Pirates are leading the league in this particular category. This is no small feat, and it highlights the team's attacking versatility, as well as the players' capacity for moments of brilliance.
Head coach Jose Riveiro is well aware of the potential importance of this weapon, especially when facing a team like Kaizer Chiefs, who like their other opponents in recent times, could adopt a low block in order to stifle the Buccaneers' attacking options at FNB Stadium.
Riveiro was quick to point out that this dynamic could work in Pirates' favour.
"Of course, [it could work] in every game; it depends on how the opponent approaches the match," he told Media at the Soweto Derby Press conference.
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"In recent games, we were facing some scenarios of a low block, with teams defending closer to the goal, which allows our second line of players space to get closer to the 16-line and enjoy those opportunities to shoot, not only to score but also to threaten the opponent and invite them to come out and block those shots."
Pirates' ability to score from outside the box is not just a testament to the individual quality of players like Thalenthe Mbatha, Kabelo Dlamini, Patrick Maswanganyi and Relebohile Mofokeng, but also a product of Riveiro's tactical setup, which encourages players to take on that extra responsibility when opportunities arise.
These long-range efforts not only provide a chance for goals but also force the opposition into a decision: to either block the shot or open up space for other attacking players.
"It's something that we try and promote with the players that have the capacity to score from that range," Riveiro said. "Obviously, it has been working very well for us, and hopefully, we continue in the same way on Saturday," he added.
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