Jose Riveiro has praised a standout Orlando Pirates player, emphasising his role as a beacon of inspiration for aspiring young talents within the team.
The Pirates coach was speaking after his troops came back from a goal down to beat Kaizer Chiefs 2-1 in the Betway Premiership Soweto Derby on Saturday afternoon at FNB Stadium.
This victory saw the Spanish mentor match Stuart Baxter’s record for the most derby victories in the PSL era. Riveiro has won five Soweto Derby games across all competitions.
RELEBOHILE MOFOKENG RECEIVES PRAISES FROM JOSE RIVEIRO
Having established himself as one of the top players for Pirates since his promotion to the first team in July 2023, Riveiro has praised Relebohile Mofokeng’s consistent displays.
Mofokeng played a significant role in Pirates’ win against Chiefs as he scored the winning goal for the Riveiro-coached side.
In the current campaign, the young Mofokeng has participated in 44 games in all competitions for his club, scoring 12 goals and weighing in with 13 assists.
“Rele, I think he is putting smiles on all of our faces. He has been the face of all the Buccaneers since he started playing for us,” Riveiro told SuperSport TV.
“So, the other boys are getting inspiration from him as well, which is something that speaks volumes about the club and where Pirates are going.”
WHAT IT MEANT FOR JOSE RIVEIRO TO FEATURE IN HIS LAST BETWAY PREMIERSHIP SOWETO DERBY
Meanwhile, Riveiro reflected on the unique experience of his final Betway Premiership Soweto Derby and expressed his hope to be involved in future derbies in his next coaching role.
“It’s something unique. Wherever I go, it is going to be difficult to experience something like this. Hopefully, I will have the opportunity to play more derbies whenever I have the chance to work,” he added.
“But this one is unique, having the fans watching the game together without any problems and celebrating. The rivalry between these two teams in the history of South African football is something unique and something you need to protect forever.
“I always try to explain to other people from the other side of the world what it means to play this game, but they can’t understand. Hopefully, many people will be attracted to this because it’s a proper show.”
RELATED STORY: Riveiro reveals reason behind early Pirates exit announcement