Orlando Pirates head coach Jose Riveiro has explained why the club’s star player Patrick Maswanganyi was absence in the CAF Champions League match against Al Ahly.
The Buccaneers and the Egyptian giants played out a goalless draw at Orlando Stadium on Saturday.
Both teams have four points after two group stage matches, with Al Ahly on top of the table due to goal difference.
Maswanganyi's absence was noticeable, prompting questions from fans and media alike. When asked about the player's whereabouts, Riveiro stated that Maswanganyi was unavailable for selection without disclosing the specific reason.
The coach emphasised that he had no right to discuss anyone's personal health issues.
RIVEIRO EXPLAINS REASON FOR MASWANGANYI’S ABSENCE
“He was not available for selection today,” said Riveiro.
“Like I said many times I don’t feel I have the right to speak about somebody’s health, maybe about mine. But he was not available for selection to the 20.
“I don’t think, we have any reason to – I don’t know how to say it without any headline – sorry but after this performance to sit here and talk about one player who didn’t play, it’s a little bit disappointing for me.
“I think we have to talk about the game that Saleng, Rele, Hotto, everybody coming from the bench played, because they did a fantastic job, it was an excellent match
“Speaking about anyone who were not the protagonists today, I think it’s not the right moment. But just to answer your question, he was not available for selection.”
