Despite a staggering 14 points gap between Mamelodi Sundowns and Orlando Pirates in the DStv Premiership, coach Jose Riveiro is confident they will catch up with run-away leaders.
Sundowns stretched their lead on top of the league table when they produced a narrow 1-0 victory over Pirates at the Orlando Stadium on Wednesday night.
The solitary goal from the penalty spot by Brazilian star Lucas Ribeiro was enough to hand Rulani Mokwena’s men the bragging rights and extend their unbeaten run in the league to 31 matches – breaking Kaizer Chiefs’ record of 2005.
In a post-match media briefing, Riveiro said it is early to throw in the towel in their quest to challenge for the league title.
“We still have 25 more games to play in the league, so it is still early to be having that conversation after just seven games,” Riveiro said.
“Meaning, we still have approximately 75 points to compete for in the league.”
The defeat means that the Buccaneers have now lost back-to-back matches and have dropped eight points in their last five games.
They currently languish on number 11 with seven points on the log. Sundowns are, on the other hand, sitting comfortably on top of the table with 21 points after seven games.
Masandawana were handed a controversial penalty in the opening stages of the game, when Themba Zwane was brought down inside the box by Siphelo Baloni.
Golden Arrows and SuperSport United are currently the only two teams closest to Sundowns with 14 and 13 points, respectively.
Riveiro and his charges will now switch their focus to Stellenbosch FC, as they prepare for their MTN8 semifinal second-leg clash on Sunday.
Pirates are in the driving seat after beating Stellies 2-1 in the first leg of the competition in Cape Town early in September.
Follow @SundayWorldZA on Twitter and @sundayworldza on Instagram, or like our Facebook Page, Sunday World, by clicking here for the latest breaking news in South Africa.
