José Riveiro is on his way out of Orlando Pirates. But has he already done enough to be called their greatest coach?
He did not win the CAF Champions League and is almost certain to leave without the South African Premiership. However, the Buccaneers under Riveiro have performed at a consistently high level. In fact, based on pure soccer performance, few can match his impact in the PSL era.
A Remarkable Points Haul
Orlando Pirates have never collected more than 61 points in a 30-game PSL season. That mark was reached in both the 2000-01 and 2002-03 campaigns. However, Riveiro’s team is now closing in on that record despite having fewer games.
Due to Royal AM’s expulsion, Pirates will only play 28 league matches this season. Yet with 52 points from 23 games, they remain on track to surpass their previous best. If they continue at this pace, they could set a new benchmark for consistency in a single campaign.
This would be a huge achievement in itself. Moreover, it comes at a time when Mamelodi Sundowns continue to dominate local soccer. The Pretoria giants have the deepest pockets, making the league harder than ever to win.
Cup Glory and Continental Ambition
José Riveiro has brought silverware to Mayfair. In just one season, he has taken Orlando Pirates to the MTN8 title and the final of the Nedbank Cup. The Buccaneers were also semi-finalists in the CAF Champions League.
That’s an impressive cup run by any standard. Few South African clubs have managed to stay competitive across all fronts. Riveiro, however, has kept his team in the hunt throughout.
Cup success has always been a part of Pirates’ identity. But doing it while also chasing the league title is something special. The demands of domestic and continental soccer are high, yet Riveiro’s men have met the challenge.
Battling the Big Spenders
Competing with Mamelodi Sundowns is no easy task. The Chloorkop club have dominated the league with their financial firepower. They have also been bold in the transfer market, recently reportedly spending around €3.2 million to sign Brazilian striker Arthur Sales.
In contrast, Orlando Pirates (91.69) do not have the same resources. Their spending has been more conservative, with smarter recruitment being the focus. Despite this, they remain one of the top-performing clubs in the league.
Riveiro’s ability to extract the best from his players has made a big difference. His tactics, rotations and man-management have all contributed to sustained success. In this context, his achievements carry even greater weight.
Comparing With Legends of the Past
Orlando Pirates have had some iconic coaches. Clive Barker, Gordon Igesund, and Ruud Krol all left their mark. Krol in particular was lauded for winning the treble in the 2010-11 season.
However, Krol had 30 league games to work with and a strong squad in his prime. Riveiro has operated under tighter constraints. Yet his team has arguably played more consistently across a congested schedule.
The debate will continue among fans and pundits. Titles are not the only measure of greatness. Consistency, adaptability and overachieving also matter in modern soccer.
A Legacy That Will Endure
Even if José Riveiro is not universally hailed as the best, his impact is undeniable. He has transformed Orlando Pirates into genuine title contenders again. He has also made them competitive in Africa, which is no small feat.
With fewer resources and against stronger opposition, he has delivered results. That speaks volumes about his coaching credentials. It also enhances his appeal for future jobs across the world of soccer.
For those involved in online sports betting, Pirates under Riveiro have been one of the most reliable picks. That alone speaks to the consistent quality of his work. In a league where unpredictability is common, he has brought much-needed stability.
Final Verdict
José Riveiro may not be remembered as the best coach in Orlando Pirates’ history by all fans. The lack of a league title or CAF Champions League crown may count against him. However, his performances on the pitch place him firmly in the conversation.
If they break their own points record in a shortened season, that will be historic. Add that to a major trophy, a cup final and a Champions League semi-final, and his CV is highly impressive. While others may have won more silverware, few have done more with less.
Whether or not he is the best ever, Riveiro deserves deep respect. His name will remain part of the Buccaneers’ proud legacy for years to come.