Orlando Pirates Coach Jose Riveiro Faces Selection Dilemma Ahead of CAF Champions League Clash
Orlando Pirates coach Jose Riveiro is set for a selection dilemma ahead of his team’s crucial CAF Champions League fixture against Stade d’Abidjan this Saturday. With both Pirates and group leaders Al Ahly tied on the same points, separated only by goal difference, Riveiro’s tactical choices will be pivotal as they look to move to the top of the group.
In the previous match against Al Ahly in Orlando, Riveiro made a notable decision by including Monnapule Saleng in the starting line-up, despite the player missing a few recent matches. Saleng’s return to the field meant that young Mohau Nkota, who has been in impressive form for Pirates, was relegated to the bench. Nkota had scored two goals in the Bucs’ 2-1 victory over CR Belouizdad in their last Champions League outing, raising questions about his absence from the starting XI.
However, Riveiro seemed satisfied with Saleng’s contribution during the 90 minutes he played against Ahly, praising the 26-year-old’s performance. This has added to the dilemma facing the coach, who now has to decide whether to retain Saleng in the starting lineup or bring Nkota back after his impactful performances.
“It can be a headache if you want to put it that way, but it’s a good selection headache for the coach,” said a source close to the team. “The youngster (Nkota) has been doing well, and him starting on the bench in the previous game doesn’t mean that there was something wrong, it was just the coach’s decision. He stands a chance to be back in the starting line-up.”
Nkota had a 20-minute cameo against Al Ahly, coming on for Deon Hotto, while Saleng played the full match. With the pressure mounting and the importance of the upcoming clash against Stade d’Abidjan, it remains to be seen whether Riveiro will opt for a change or keep faith with Saleng.
The stakes are high for Pirates as they aim to secure a win in Ivory Coast, with the possibility of climbing to the top of their group. The tactical decisions ahead of this match could prove crucial in their bid for continental success.
