Pirates boss Jose Riveiro. Image: BackpagePix
What is Orlando Pirates best 11 at the moment?
Does Jose Riveiro know his best Orlando Pirates 11? Sometimes having a squad packed with quality can be a problem before it’s the solution.
Pirates boss Jose Riveiro. Image: BackpagePix
What is Orlando Pirates best 11 right now? With the Buccaneers already busy in the transfer window, the picture isn’t all that clear.
Let’s examine Jose Riveiro’s numerous tactical and personnel options because once he settles on a system and a few core players, we should see Pirates shoot up the table. Their squad is just too good for them to be languishing in midtable.
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Does Jose Riveiro know his best Orlando Pirates best 11?
Stacked in central midfield
Even before the signing of Craig Martin, the Buccaneers were blessed with serious depth in midfield. Miguel Timm is undoubtedly the first-choice holding player and he’s got capable backup in the form of Ben Motshwari. Goodman Mosele is a top prospect at just 23, while Fortune Makaringe offers plenty of versatility and tactical smartness. How does Riveiro juggle all of these options? Bear in mind he must also slot in star playmaker Ndabayithethwa Ndlondlo. The formation must essentially be built around the ex-Gallants schemer and Timm, the conductor of the Pirates orchestra.
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Does Riveiro know his best formation?
The Spanish boss has tinkered with his side consistently, initially option for three at the back at the start of the season but he’s also trialled a 4-4-2 and even a 4-1-2-1-2 midfield diamond.
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The ever-dependable and versatile Deon Hotto, nominally a wide-man on the left, often fills in wherever he is needed, most notably at left wing-back when Riveiro optS for a 3-4-3. No matter which system is employed, Hotto plays.
Too many attackers?
There are just so many attackers at the club, that he might be tempted to revert to a 3-4-3 in order to accommodate two strikers in his starting 11. Either way, there will be plenty of top quality players spending a lot of time on the bench. None of Zakhele Lepasa, Kermit Erasmus or Ndumiso Mabena are guarenteed a starting berth.
Best Orlando Pirates 11 right now?
Ofori; Ndah, Sibisi, Maela; Monyane, Timm, Ndlondlo, Hotto; Lepasa, Erasmus, Saleng
The depth at Riveiro’s disposal feels like a hindrance rather than a help, but with time it can become his biggest asset.
Meanwhile, you can get more insights, analysis and love for the beautiful game from James Freemantle
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