Orlando Pirates Legend Backs Jose Riveiro’s Bucs: “It’s Not a Fluke That the Team Is Doing Well”

Orlando Pirates legend Edelbert Dinha has lauded the work of head coach Jose Riveiro, declaring that the Buccaneers’ recent success is no accident, but rather the result of structure, vision, and consistency from the Spanish tactician.

Since Riveiro’s arrival, the Soweto giants have enjoyed a trophy-laden run — lifting at least one domestic title in each of the past three seasons, with the MTN8 already secured this campaign. Now, they’re on the brink of a historic double as they prepare for the Nedbank Cup final and CAF Champions League semi-final.

“Not a Fluke”

Dinha, who played for Pirates and the Zimbabwe national team in the early 2000s, shared his admiration for the club’s progress under Riveiro in an exclusive with GOAL.

“It’s not a fluke that the team is doing well and in cup finals,” said the retired midfield maestro.
“They’ve already won the MTN8, now they have a chance to defend the Nedbank Cup, and they’re in the Champions League semi-final — that’s good.”

Riveiro has swiftly silenced critics who initially doubted his ability to navigate the pressure that comes with coaching one of South Africa’s most decorated clubs. His tactical acumen, man-management, and ability to rotate effectively have seen Pirates emerge as Sundowns’ strongest local rivals.

Soweto Derby in the Final

Pirates are set to face arch-rivals Kaizer Chiefs in a mouthwatering Nedbank Cup final clash at Moses Mabhida Stadium — a fixture that promises to ignite South African football. Dinha praised Chiefs for their resurgence, noting their qualification for the CAF Confederation Cup as a step in the right direction.

“The final of a cup being played by the Soweto giants is good for South African football. I’m also happy for Kaizer Chiefs making it to the final,” Dinha said.
“They’re going to the Confederation Cup, which is great for the club and the country.”

“It will be pressure for them because you can see that Mamelodi Sundowns and Orlando Pirates are doing well — they’re in the last four [of the Champions League] — and that now means Chiefs need to up their performances when they play continental football.”

Riveiro’s Legacy

Dinha also believes that a second trophy this season would be the perfect reward for Riveiro’s impact at the club.

“I’m putting my money on Orlando Pirates to defend their trophy, win their second trophy, and give the coach a great send-off as he has served the club with distinction.”

While there’s no official word that Riveiro will be departing, Dinha’s remarks speak volumes about the regard in which the coach is held by the Pirates faithful and legends alike.

The Bigger Picture

With Chiefs, Pirates, and Sundowns all active on the continental stage, South African football is seeing a welcome renaissance. Their involvement in CAF competitions boosts local visibility, attracts investment, and raises the bar for performance standards across the PSL.

What’s Next for Pirates?

The Buccaneers now prepare to welcome Egyptian heavyweights Pyramids FC in the first leg of the CAF Champions League semi-finals. A strong performance at home will set the tone as they chase a second continental crown and continue their mission of restoring the club’s glory days under Riveiro.

For Pirates supporters, the message is clear: this is not a fluke — it’s a new era.