As excitement mounts for the Nedbank Cup final between Kaizer Chiefs and Orlando Pirates this Saturday, it’s hard to overlook that this will be Jose Riviero’s final opportunity to claim silverware with his beloved Orlando Pirates.
The announcement of Riveiro’s exit on April 3rd sent ripples of surprise throughout the South African football landscape. Now, in the lead-up to the crucial Nedbank Cup final, Orlando Pirates midfielder Thalente Mbatha has shed light on the players’ reaction to this news during the club’s media day.
When questioned about the team’s sentiment upon hearing of Riveiro’s decision, Mbatha made a shocking revelation. “He didn’t tell us that he was leaving. We saw the official statement from the club”.
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Despite this unexpected manner of learning about their coach’s exit, Mbatha, whose career has flourished under Riveiro’s guidance, emphasized the team’s unwavering focus. “But I believe that it’s something that it’s not at the back of our minds as they [Orlando Pirates management] were talking and discussing on their own.
“We are not there as players. As players we believe that we have to be professional and stick to the game [the Nedbank Cup final],” he concluded.
Mbatha’s own journey at Orlando Pirates serves as a testament to Riveiro’s impact. Initially joining on loan from SuperSport United in the latter part of the previous season, Mbatha’s promising performances – including a Man-of-the-Match award in Pirates’ triumphant Nedbank Cup final against Mamelodi Sundowns – convinced the club to make his move permanent.
In total, he has featured in 54 matches for the Buccaneers, contributing five goals and three assists, a stark contrast to his limited appearances and lack of goals in his previous stint.
As the clock ticks down to the Nedbank Cup final this Saturday, May 10, 2025, at 15h30 at the iconic Moses Mabhida Stadium in Durban, the encounter between Kaizer Chiefs and Orlando Pirates takes on an added layer of intrigue.
Beyond the fierce rivalry and the quest for the coveted trophy, this match represents Jose Riveiro’s final chapter with Orlando Pirates, and his players will undoubtedly be aiming to send him off with one last piece of silverware.