With the highly anticipated Nedbank Cup final against arch-rivals Kaizer Chiefs approaching, all eyes are on Orlando Pirates as they prepare to face their rivals at Durban’s Moses Mabhida Stadium this Saturday.
Pirates come into the final with a slight psychological edge, having won the last five encounters against Chiefs, including their victory in the 2022/23 Nedbank Cup semi-final, which was decided in extra time.
Unless an unexpected collapse by current Betway Premiership leaders Mamelodi Sundowns occurs, this final represents Riveiro’s final realistic chance to secure silverware during his three-year tenure with the Buccaneers.
While the immediate goal is the trophy, Riveiro’s lasting impact at Orlando Pirates extends beyond potential silverware. Over the course of his tenure, he has nurtured and integrated a number of promising young talents into the first team.
Riveiro has consistently promoted youth throughout his time with the Buccaneers. Players such as Relebohile Mofokeng, Mohau Nkota, Mbekezeli Mbokazi, and Siyabonga Ndlozi have all earned their senior debuts under his leadership.
In the most recent Soweto Derby, another young talent, Simphiwe Selepe, was included in the matchday squad, further continuing the trend of youth development under the Spanish coach.
Experienced Pirates defender Tapelo Xoki spoke about the club’s approach to integrating youth, emphasizing the support provided by senior players and coaching staff.
Xoki explained that they take a hands-off approach, allowing young players to express themselves on the field. “It’s a minimal role (we play), really. We just let them be themselves,” Xoki said.
“The coaches give them the confidence, and everyone in the club supports them. They know that they have our backing,” Xoki continued.
“So, we try to make sure that we let them be themselves as much as they can, so they can execute the game plan.”
The defender emphasized the importance of allowing the youngsters to stay true to themselves and their natural playing styles. “We know what they are capable of, we see them at training and see what they can produce. So, on the day, it’s just about letting them be themselves,” he said.
“We don’t force too much information on them. We just let them be kids, enjoy football.
“We were once in their shoes, so now we try to learn from our past mistakes, where our senior players treated us differently. We try to sort those things out.
“What is important is to let them be themselves and enjoy themselves,” he concluded. With the Nedbank Cup final approaching, Xoki is hopeful the youngsters will play a key role in helping the team defend their title and win the trophy for the third consecutive year.
As for the team’s preparation for the final, Xoki shared an optimistic outlook. “We are trying to get ready as best as we can, and the preparations have gone well. Luckily, for us, there are no major injuries. We are trying to get as fresh and ready for Saturday,” Xoki said.
The Sea Robbers will meet their arch-rivals in the final at 15:30 this Saturday, aiming to secure another prestigious victory.