Orlando Pirates head coach Jose Riveiro has shed light on the tactical change that led to Karim Kimvuidi scoring his first goal in the new season.
Kimvuidi, playing in a more advanced role, found the back of the net as Pirates cruised to a 4-0 win over Disciples FC of Madagascar in the first preliminary round of the CAF Champions League at Orlando Stadium on Friday night.
The first-leg in Mauritius last Sunday ended in a goalless draw as the Madagascan side managed to frustrate and hold off Pirates’ attack, with Kimvuidi missing the game.
Since joining Pirates from Maritzburg United ahead of the 2023/24 campaign, Kimvuidi has shown flashes of brilliance but has yet to truly hit his stride. Riveiro believes this will only change if Kimvuidi continues to capitalise on his playing time.
The 22-year-old’s statistics thus far in Pirates colours have not fully reflected his ability, with just three goals and no assists in 24 games across all competitions. However, Riveiro remains optimistic, citing Kimvuidi’s versatility and recent goal against Disciples FC as positive signs.
Looking ahead to the 2024/25 season, Riveiro hinted at a potential change in Kimvuidi’s role.
While he primarily played as a central attacking midfielder last season, Kimvuidi came on as a substitute in the 75th minute against Disciples FC and was part of the front three behind Evidence Makgopa in a 4-2-3-1 formation.
And with a deep pool of attacking midfielders like Lesedi Kapinga, Relebohile Mofokeng, Kabelo Dlamini, Patrick Maswanganyi, Thuso Moleleki, and Selaelo Rasebotja, Riveiro’s decision to experiment with Kimvuidi in a different role proved fruitful.
KIMVUIDI’S GOAL: A SIGN OF THINGS TO COME? PIRATES COACH RIVEIRO WEIGHS IN
“It can only help him to use the time he is getting,” said Riveiro. “It is really difficult to get playing time in this group, especially in the position where Karim used to play. He played as one of the three players upfront, one of the three forwards [against Disciples FC].
“He played in a slightly different space than the space he is used to playing in, and that’s what the players need to do whenever they come to the field for 10, 15 to 30 minutes. Show who they are as football players, who they are during the week at training, and how well prepared they are.
“Don’t miss your opportunity, and tonight, Karim, let’s say the goal is a positive thing. I think it will help him be more confident next time. Also, for the fans to see Karim scoring; I think it is a very good new, which is probably not his strength [scoring]. He is more of one player who used to be in the last pass or second last pass, but this is a good new for all of us and Karim is trying hard, so we are all happy to see Karim happy.”
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