With Jose Riveiro’s reign at Orlando Pirates drawing to a close, Polokwane City FC head coach Phuti Mohafe has offered his assessment of the Spanish tactician’s time at the Soweto giants.
Mohafe has expressed his views regarding the 49-year-old Pirates coach after their 1-0 loss to the Buccaneers in a Betway Premiership encounter at the Old Peter Mokaba Stadium on Saturday afternoon.
On Thursday, 3 April, Pirates announced that Riveiro will leave the club when the season concludes, ending speculation about his immediate future. Riveiro’s contract at the Bucs will expire in June 2025, having signed a three-year deal with the club in July 2022.
Since he arrived at the club, Riveiro has brought back the art of winning, proven by his impressive record of titles he has won. He has won two Nedbank Cup trophies and three MTN8 titles. In addition, he has finished as runners-up to Mamelodi Sundowns twice in the league.
WHAT PHUTI MOHAFE SAID ABOUT JOSE RIVEIRO’S STAY AT ORLANDO PIRATES
The PLK City coach, Mohafe, praised Riveiro’s impact at Pirates, noting that securing a trophy each season is no easy feat.
“Even though it is out of my league, I can say he has done a massive job there [at Orlando Pirates],” said Mohafe. “So, winning five cups in three seasons at the club is no child’s play.
“You know, winning a cup every season is not easy. So, he has contributed massively to our league and the club.”
Riveiro still has the opportunity to increase his trophy collection as his troops are pursuing multiple titles. They are on track for a third consecutive Nedbank Cup victory, remain in the league title race – having narrowed the gap to 12 points with three games in hand following their win against PLK City – and are on the verge of advancing to the CAF Champions League semifinals.
Pirates, carrying a 1-0 advantage, are set to host MC Alger in the second leg of their CAF Champions League quarterfinal tie. The match will take place at Orlando Stadium on Wednesday, 9 April, kicking off at 18:00 SA time.
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