Orlando Pirates coach has fallen in love with Bucs’ fans

Orlando Pirates coach Jose Riveiro was blown away by the support the club has received so far this season.

Swallows fell to a 1-0 defeat at Orlando Stadium, which welcomed fans back for the first time since 2020.

Pirates were held in midweek but Riveiro can look forward to being back at Orlando Stadium on Sunday.

Orlando Pirates coach thrilled with start

Bienvenu Eva Nga introduced himself to the Buccaneer’s faithful and his debut goal was enough to secure a victory for Pirates.

The supporters serenaded Riveiro and his charges after the match, moving the Spanish coach who is on his first assignment in South Africa.

 “It is beautiful, hopefully game after game more people come into the stadium. We need them, it is nice to play with them, I am very happy.”

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Riveiro was satisfied with the team’s efforts despite their failure to kill the game off.

Orlando Pirates chase improvements

Pirates weathered a fightback to snatch three points on Saturday and start the new campaign on a positive note.

“We can always do it better, there was a moment in the second half when we didn’t control the game as we would like to do. 

“But credit to our opponent, they were trying to find a soloution after half time, and we took too much time to start performing in the second period.

“But I think in the first 20 to 25 minutes of the match we showed a good version of ourselves.

“Even in the moments we were not comfortable, we were controlling the game and competing well … I am happy with the performance.”

Time to challenge

Ahead of the match Eva Nga declared his delight at joining Orlando Pirates and his hopes to carry the Sea Robbers to glory.

“One of the things that have attracted me is the professionalism. Everything is organised and done on time,” he told the club’s media team.

“It’s something that also helps you improve in terms of discipline, because you know that you need to do things properly, you need to work hard to be a part of the starting team. 

“I’m very happy to be part of this big club. I’ve had a really warm welcome from people I’ve watched and seen from the outside.”