Orlando Pirates' future bright despite untimely Riveiro departure - Khanye
- Dennis Kegengo
- 14 hours ago
- 1 min read
Former Kaizer Chiefs winger Junior Khanye has predicted a bright future for South African outfit Orlando Pirates, but expressed disappointment over the upcoming exit of head coach Jose Riveiro at the end of the campaign.
The Spanish tactician, who is set to leave Pirates at the end of his contract, guided Pirates to the 2024/25 CAF Champions League semi-finals, where they ultimately lost 3-2 on aggregate to Egyptian side Pyramids.
Having drawn the first leg of the semi-final 0-0 at FNB Stadium, Pyramids used their home advantage to end Pirates' amazing run in the inter-club competition.
Reviewing Pirates' performance, Khanye maintained that the club should be proud of what they have achieved, despite their journey ending in the last four. However, he stated that Riveiro's decision to step down at the end of the season was not timely.
"Reaching the semi-final is a positive thing for Pirates,” said Khanye on iDiski TV.
"There is a bright future ahead of these kids [...] It’s a pity that the coach is leaving because it’s important for a coach to have an understanding with his players. He brought out the best in these players. For me, the best team lost.
“Even though he is leaving, Jose can be proud of himself, especially for giving youngsters a chance. It’s not every coach that plays a semi-final with young players, especially in continental football. He took a risk, and look at how these boys are changing games."
Pirates will now shift their focus to defending their Nedbank Cup title, where they are slated to face Kaizer Chiefs in a Soweto derby final on May 10.
