Riveiro on Pirates star: ‘That’s why Broos got attracted by his quality’
Orlando Pirates coach Jose Riveiro has spoken highly of a star player, suggesting the player’s talent is so undeniable that it even caught the eye of Bafana Bafana coach Hugo Broos.
Riveiro believes that the player’s humility, work ethic, and desire to keep improving are the key factors in his success.
The Sea Robbers had many players who performed well this season, from the back up to the front. This group of players helped the Soweto giants finish second in the DStv Premiership this season and qualify for the CAF Champions League next season.
In addition, Pirates completed a double, winning the MTN8 title and the Nedbank Cup. They defeated rivals Mamelodi Sundowns in both finals.
JOSE RIVEIRO IMPRESSED BY RELEBOHILE MOFOKENG
The Spaniard is impressed by Relebohile Mofokeng, who recently received his first Bafana Bafana call-up. Bafana will face Nigeria and Zimbabwe in the upcoming 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers this month.
The 19-year-old starlet may make his senior team debut in either of the matches.
Riveiro says Mofokeng’s statistics speak for themselves, and he hopes the youngster excels at Bafana Bafana.
“That’s why the national team coach [Hugo Broos] is getting attracted by his quality. There is going to be an improvement. Hopefully, everyone can enjoy him in the national team,” said Riveiro.
“Fantastic stats in his level, improving week after week. He’s getting really complete as a football player, and the future looks bright for him.
“Hope he can continue in the space that he is right now. How humble he is, how much he listens, how much he tries to get more complete, that’s why he’s where he is.”
At club level, the young prospect has been impressive in the 2023/24 PSL season. In 38 matches in all competitions, the School of Excellence graduate racked up five goals and grabbed six assists.
On Saturday, 1 June, Mofokeng stole the show against Sundowns in the Nedbank Cup final at Mbombela Stadium. He came in as a second-half substitute and scored the winner in stoppage time as Pirates won 2-1.
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