Riveiro Discusses His Confidence in Young Players During the Soweto Derby
Orlando Pirates coach Jose Riveiro has announced his bold move to feature six graduates from the DStv Diski Challenge [DDC] in their remarkable comeback against rivals Kaizer Chiefs during Saturday’s Soweto derby at FNB Stadium.
The Spanish coach trusted the younger talents in his lineup to rise to the occasion against their competitors, including Relebohile Mofokeng, 20, Mohau Nkota, 20, and Mbekezeli Mbokazi, 19, who were part of the starting team.
Furthermore, Siyabonga Ndlozi, 22, Boitumelo Radiopane, 22, and Simphiwe Selepe, 20, came on in the second half to substitute Bandile Shandu, Evidence Makgopa, and Thalente Mbatha, while Yanga Madiba remained an unused substitute.
This led to the Pirates finishing the derby with six young players on the pitch. The Bucs’ coach emphasized that the players earned their spots through their performances, demonstrating their readiness in training and asserting that age does not dictate his selection criteria.
“We take pride in them because when I say I’m providing opportunities, it’s about their consistent display of merit and readiness—not just about placing them in the game,” Riveiro stated.
“That exemplifies what being prepared means; you cannot be fully ready until you gain experience. As I always say, it’s not about age—it’s about talent, professionalism, and building their confidence.
“If they sense our belief in them, it will significantly boost their confidence, and I’ve emphasized that academy players bring something unique and exceptional.”
Moreover, Riveiro insists that academy graduates offer a unique value unavailable in the transfer market, as they are deeply integrated into the club’s ethos and culture, crediting the abundance of talented youth at Pirates to the club’s management commitment.
“They have something extraordinary; they understand the club from a unique perspective. They’ve been involved with the team—initially as ball boys, then as DDC players, and partaking in our training, absorbing the team’s culture,” the Buccaneers’ coach explained.
“When they are ready, they bring something exceptional—identity and numerous vital elements of football. I believe the club is thriving in this area; as I’ve said before, this isn’t merely the Riveiro vision; it’s about Orlando Pirates.
“We are committed to our responsibilities; my role as a coach is to equip them with the tools they need to succeed, collaborating closely with the technical staff. When outcomes unfold positively, as they did today [Saturday], it’s a special feeling for everyone involved.”
The Sea Robbers are set to return to action against Golden Arrows at Moses Mabhida Stadium in the Betway Premiership on Tuesday, before shifting their focus to the Nedbank Cup final against Chiefs on May 10 at the same venue.