PSL teams warned against underrating Abdeslam Ouaddou's Orlando Pirates even after Jose Riveiro's exit: 'It's still going to be tough to compete against Bucs' - Zwane

Coach Jose Riveiro ditched Orlando Pirates for Al Ahly following the expiry of his contract at the end of the 2024/25 season.

In the three years he was with Bucs, the club won five titles and became a force to reckon with both in Mzansi and abroad.

He ensured the Sea Robbers returned to the top, at the same time playing beautiful football. 

Abdeslam Ouaddou was a surprise appointment to succeed Riveiro.

The former Morocco international had a short stint with Marumo Gallants, whom he helped get out of the relegation zone to a top 10 finish.

Questions have been asked about the ability of the 46-year-old to continue from where Riveiro left.

AmaZulu coach and former Kaizer Chiefs tactician insists it is not a big deal because the club has set structures to help the new technical team to deliver.

“So, trust me, it’s still going to be tough to compete against this Pirates team, because they are building an identity," he told the media.

"The new coach has come in and is already doing well because he has continued where Jose left off. So, that’s how the game should be.
"There should be continuity. It’s what we are trying to build at AmaZulu as well; that’ll help so that even if I am not around.

"As coaches, we don’t stay too long for many reasons – whoever comes in competes and is able to produce and sell players,” Zwane concluded..

Pirates started life without Riveiro with a 2-0 MTN8 win over Polokwane City to set a semi-final date with Mamelodi Sundowns.

It will be important for the new technical team to keep the momentum going this weekend against Sekhukhune United at the Orlando Stadium.