Orlando Pirates legend not surprised by the results that are coming under Jose Riveiro - 'It’s not a fluke that the team is doing well'

Orlando Pirates have enjoyed a great run over the past three seasons, winning at least one trophy every year since the arrival of Jose Riveiro.

When the Spaniard first arrived, many doubted his abilities, but he has silenced critics by becoming one of the most successful coaches in the club’s recent history.

Now, he stands on the brink of guiding Bucs to their second Caf Champions League title.

Speaking exclusively to GOAL, former Zimbabwean international Edelbert Dinha expressed his admiration for the club’s rise under Riveiro.

He emphasized that Pirates’ success is no fluke, praising the structure and ambition of the team.

Dinha also celebrated Kaizer Chiefs’ resurgence, acknowledging their qualification for the Caf Confederation Cup as a positive step.

"It’s not a fluke that the team is doing well and in cup finals. 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," Dinha told GOAL.

"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, and also that 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 — and that now means Chiefs need to up their performances when they play continental football," he added.

"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 distinctions."

With Kaizer Chiefs qualifying for the Nedbank Cup final, and also qualifying for the Confederations Cup, South African football is seeing a strong revival.

The presence of all three traditional giants — Mamelodi Sundowns, Orlando Pirates, and now Chiefs in continental competitions is a huge boost for the growth of the local game.

Their participation raises the standard and visibility of South African clubs on the African stage and encourages more investment and development.

Riveiro’s men will shift their focus to the Caf Champions League semi-final as they welcome Egyptian giants Pyramids in the first leg.

A positive result at home will set the tone for their continental ambitions.