Jose Riveiro’s tenure as head coach of Orlando Pirates has transformed the club’s fortunes. Initially dismissed as a “plumber” upon his arrival in South Africa, Riveiro has proven his critics wrong with impressive results that speak volumes.
Born in Vigo, Galicia, Spain, Riveiro embarked on his coaching career at a young age, taking the reins of CD Teis in the regional leagues. After three successful years, he served as an assistant and coached youth teams at Rápido de Bouzas. In 2010, he made a significant impact at Mondariz FC, achieving promotion to the Preferente in his debut season. His dedication to player development shone through his work with CD Choco and RC Celta de Vigo’s youth programs.
In 2014, Riveiro took his talents abroad, joining Finnish side FC Honka as an assistant coach. He continued to hone his skills at PK-35 Vantaa before becoming the assistant manager at HJK Helsinki in 2016. By October 2018, he had earned a managerial position at FC Inter Turku, where he led the team to a remarkable second-place finish in the Veikkausliiga, qualifying for European competition.
Transforming Orlando Pirates: Trophy-laden era
Riveiro’s journey with Orlando Pirates began on June 25, 2022, and it didn’t take long for him to make an impact. In his first campaign, he secured the 2022 MTN 8 Cup, followed by the 2022/2023 Nedbank Cup. Riveiro’s tactical prowess propelled Pirates to a second-place finish in the DStv Premiership(now Betway Premiership), earning a spot in the prestigious CAF Champions League.
His success didn’t stop there. In 2023, he clinched the MTN 8 Cup again, marking a historic achievement as he defended the Nedbank Cup against Mamelodi Sundowns. In just over two years, Riveiro amassed five trophies, the most by any coach at Orlando Pirates since Tony Sanderson.
Record-breaking achievements
His latest success, saw Riveiro make history as the first coach to win the Top 8 (BP/SAA/MTN8) with the same club on three occasions during the competition’s 50-year history. He joins the elite ranks as only the second coach to achieve three Top 8 titles, a feat previously accomplished by Stanley ‘Screamer’ Tshabalala.
Riveiro’s style of play reflects high energy and meticulous control. His team knows when to accelerate and when to maintain composure. Riveiro has mastered the art of strategic gameplay, methodically dismantling opponents before delivering the decisive blow.
“I think all the compliments today should go to the guys [players],” Riveiro said after winning the MTN 8 Cup for the third time.
“They managed to play a really good final in my opinion even though we were chasing the one goal early.
“I didn’t have the feeling anytime that we cannot make it today. We managed to overcome every problem that we were having during the game with injuries.
“We went a little bit short of numbers today in some certain positions.
“Thank you to the guys. Thank you to the ones that couldn’t make it today. To the 20, the ones who are in Jo’burg, the ones that are here in the stands, the technical team. To the fans of course.”
Riveiro: Betway Prem next stop?
Riveiro’s coaching journey is a testament to his skill, resilience, and tactical intelligence. As he continues to lead Orlando Pirates, fans can expect a bright future filled with more titles and memorable moments. The numbers don’t lie, Riveiro has solidified his place in the club’s history, transforming sceptics into believers.
Next stop, the Betway Premiership, can Jose Riveiro end the “Happy Peoples” league trophy drought?
Stay tuned with The South African as we delve into the story of Jose Riveiro and Orlando Pirates.
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