Pirates legend demands one elusive trophy from Riveiro this season

Published on by Willis Sob, updated on

The former Sea Robbers skipper is confident the Soweto giants have what it takes to stop Mamelodi Sundowns.

Jose Riveiro has already won two Nedbank Cups and as many MTN8 crowns since he arrived at Orlando Pirates at the beginning of the 2022/23 season.

The Spaniard has also helped the Soweto Giants finish second in the Premier Soccer League for as many campaigns.

The Sea Robbers have been tipped to challenge Mamelodi Sundowns who have won the last seven editions.

Lekgwathi wants the league

The Buccaneers legend Lucky Lekgwathi believes the time is right for the tactician to go the extra mile and win a trophy that has eluded the team since the 2011/12 season.

Thalente Mbatha explains how CAF Champions League will benefit him as individual
Thalente Mbatha – Photo by Orlando Pirates

“The coach [Riveiro] has won four cups already, so now he must win the league. We can't be ruled by Sundowns as if they are owning the league…let there be competition,” he told Sowetan Live.

“Teams must challenge Sundowns this season and I see it happening with Pirates and SuperSport [United]. If [Stellenbosch] didn't lose [Deano] van Rooyen [to Pirates] and [Iqraam] Rayners [to Sundowns] they would have challenged as well but now I really doubt.”

Who will leave to pave the way for Van Rooyen?

After Van Rooyen's signing, Pirates now have four right-backs including Bandile Shandu, Thabiso Monyane, and Thabiso Lebitso. However, Lekgwathi insists none should be let go by Riveiro.

Deano van Rooyen Image Orlando Pirates

“If there was a season where Pirates really needed depth in the squad is this season. Remember there will be injuries and suspensions as well, so I really don't see why one between Monyane and Shandu should leave,” Lekgwathi continued.

“It's good to have healthy competition. Monyane and Shandu will keep Lebisto and van Rooyen on their toes. Going back to our times, at some point we didn't have a left-back and I was asked to play there…we don't need that now…we need players to play at their natural positions.

“There was a time where [Fortune] Makaringe played at right-back because we lacked depth and we didn't do well, so we must not get rid of any player now.”

Bucs are in action on Friday in the second leg of the Caf Champions League's first preliminary round against Disciples. The first meeting ended 0-0.

Pirates legend demands one elusive trophy from Riveiro this season

Willis Sob

Willis Sob is an experienced journalist who has been in the game since 2009, covering major assignments around the continent.
His hunger for African football is unmatched, always getting the best angles and facts to feed the fans and quench their thirst.