The Soweto Giants are still recovering from a heavy defeat at the hands of Kaizer Chiefs last weekend, a result that left them with much to ponder

The last dance     

When Orlando Pirates named Jose Riveiro head coach ahead of the 2022/23 season, his appointment was met with scepticism to say the least. Many questioned whether a relatively unknown coach—whose career had largely played out in Finland—was suited to lead a club of Pirates’ stature. However, it didn’t take long for the 47-year-old to prove his critics wrong.

In his first season, Riveiro secured an MTN8 trophy, lifted the Nedbank Cup, and guided the team to a second-place finish in the then DStv Premiership. These were not mere strokes of luck; they were a testament to his tactical acumen, ability to build cohesion, and a deeply ingrained winning mentality.

In his second season, he repeated the feat—defending both the MTN8 and Nedbank Cup titles, a rare accomplishment in the Premier Soccer League. Then, earlier this season, he made history by guiding Pirates to a third consecutive MTN8 title—known affectionately as the “Wafa Wafa” Cup—an extraordinary milestone for any PSL coach.

The outgoing mentor had a chance to claim a sixth trophy when Pirates met Chiefs in the Nedbank Cup final this past weekend. However, it was not to be, as Amakhosi emerged 2-1 victors at Moses Mabhida Stadium, ending their 10-year trophy drought. Despite the heartbreak, Riveiro’s legacy is secure. Five trophies in less than three years, two league runner-up finishes and a semi-final run in the CAF Champions League have cemented his name among the greats of the Soweto giants.

How to watch

The match is scheduled to kick-off at 19:30 on Tuesday, 13 May and will be carried live on the public broadcaster’s radio stations for commentary. The match will be broadcast live on satellite TV giants SuperSport channel 202 and can be streamed on Showmax.

Orlando Stadium

The 40 000 seater stadium will host the clash between Orlando Pirates and Golden Arrows. The Soweto based stadium is expected to be filled to the rafters, as is the case when Pirates take to the pitch. The stadium was refurbished to a state-of-the-art stadium ahead of the 2010 FIFA World Cup and was used as one of the training venues for the global spectacle.

Betting odds (supplied by Hollywoodbets)

To win (90 min)

Orlando Pirates 4/10 | Draw 7/2 | Golden Arrows 7/1

José Riveiro will be looking for a strong response from his team as they look to bounce back in his final game at the helm of the Mighty Buccaneers.

I think the play is Pirates and over 3.5 goals at 28/10.