Richards Bay FC coach Ronnie Gabriel has issued a confident statement ahead of their Nedbank Cup Round of 32 clash against Orlando Pirates.
The two sides will collide at King Zwelithini Stadium in Umlazi on Sunday, January 26th.
Pirates come to this competition as defending champions having beaten Mamelodi Sundowns in the final last season.
Jose Riveiro's side is performing exceptionally well on both the domestic and continental fronts, demonstrating strong form in the CAF Champions League.
Gabriel hailed Pirates as “arguably the best team in Africa at the moment,” Gabriel. However, he highlighted Richards Bay's consistent resilience against them in previous encounters.
He further expressed high confidence within the Richards Bay camp as they prepare for this crucial match.
RONNIE GABRIEL AND RICHARDS BAY NOT INTIMIDATED BY PIRATES
“We know they are team on the up and having good form in the moment. However, if you look at our previous games against Pirates in the previous years, we always gave Pirates a good competitive fixture and give them something to think about,” said Gabriel.
“Last year, we went to Orlando Stadium and we beat them in their home ground. So, we fancy our chances going into the fixture as well.
“We are not intimidated by the opposition as much as we respect them. We believe that we have the squad that is capable of handling Pirates on the day.”
