Orlando Pirates coach Jose Riveiro celebrated another successful defense of the Carling Black Label Cup with All Stars XI, securing a commanding 3-0 win.
Naledi Hlongwane emerged as a key figure in the victory, but what did we learn from the weekend’s fixture?
Chemistry between Vilakazi and Maswanganyi
The bond between Kaizer Chiefs’ Mfundo Vilakazi and Orlando Pirates’ Patrick Maswanganyi grew deeper this weekend, with the duo publicly displaying their connection on and off the pitch.
This past weekend, the 19-year-old paid tribute to ‘Tito’ during a live Instagram video following the Carling XI All Stars victory. Vilakazi, who had shared the bench with Maswanganyi, wore his rival’s jersey, complete with Maswanganyi’s name on the back, and playfully chanted “We Tito, we Tito, we Tito…,” even commentating on a fictional hat-trick scored by “Tito.”
This public display of admiration comes just weeks after Pirates’ Maswanganyi offered support to a dejected Vilakazi. After Chiefs’ 4-0 defeat to Mamelodi Sundowns in the Carling Knockout Cup, Maswanganyi posted a message of encouragement on Instagram, writing, “Kuzolunga njayam khululeka” (loosely translated as “It’s gonna be fine, my brother, don’t stress”).
Their camaraderie has also been captured in lighter moments, such as during a Carling All–Star XI training session where the two were seen playfully interacting, further solidifying the image of a genuine friendship that exists beyond club lines.
Nasreddine Nabi has a selection headache
Nasreddine Nabi has a selection headache on his hands as his Kaizer Chiefs players shone in the Carlin All-Stars victory.
Chiefs youth players were instrumental in the win, scoring all three goals in the first half.
Naledi Hlongwane led the charge with a brace, scoring in the 11th and 22nd minutes. His first goal, a left-footed finish, was assisted by teammate Samkelo Zwane, who then scored himself just ten minutes later, converting a pass from Ashley Du Preez. Hlongwane’s second goal, another left-footed strike, was set up by Mbekezeli Mbokani.
Hlongwane’s impressive performance sends a strong message to Nabi as Chiefs continue their search for a striker to address their attacking struggles. The Amakhosi reserve team player has emerged at a crucial time for the Soweto giants.
Samkelo Zwane also delivered a standout performance, scoring a goal and providing an assist, further showcasing his flair. Chiefs players return to action on December 29 when they host Chippa United.
Riveiro on Bafana Bafana duty
After he retained the Carling Cup with the Carling All-Stars, coach Jose Riveiro addressed speculation about his potential future role as South Africa’s national team coach.
With similarities drawn by a member of the media, who noted Riveiro’s ability to manage diverse players, the current Pirates man did not shy away from the opportunity.
Riveiro responded, “You never know, right now my focus is 100% on the responsibility that I have, trust me, I have enough,” Riveiro said about potentially coaching Bafana one day.
“Usually, national teams used to be coaches with more experience, more kilometres in this job, but it’s also changing right now, you can see some young coaches, coaching top national teams around the world.
“Who knows? I like coaching and right now I like to do what I am doing at Orlando Pirates, to do my best when I am invited to do the same in this space, I don’t think much about what is going to happen in the future.” he concluded.