Tricky opponent! How Jose Riveiro can outsmart Gavin Hunt and guide Orlando Pirates to the top of the PSL standings with win over SuperSport United

Pirates have signed five key players this season.

Deano Van Rooyen has settled in quickly since joining, while Gilberto is still adjusting, facing tough competition on the wing.

Thalente Mbatha, who made his loan move permanent, has shown significant growth—earning a Bafana Bafana call-up and scoring two crucial goals during the Afcon qualifiers.

Selaelo Rasebotja, a recent addition, is already making an impact in the midfield.

With games coming thick and fast, managing team selection will be crucial for Riveiro.

He must strike the right balance to keep his players motivated, avoid fatigue, and ensure everyone is ready to perform when called upon.

Pirates are dealing with several injury setbacks, most notably the absence of Olisah Ndah. The 26-year-old has suffered a tibia fracture, and due to the complexity of the injury, the medical team faces a tricky decision regarding surgery.

Unfortunately, Ndah has been ruled out for the remainder of the year. Thalente Mbatha, who picked up an injury during the MTN8 victory over Stellenbosch FC, remains in rehabilitation. His progress will be evaluated closely this week before he can rejoin full training.

Meanwhile, Bandile Shandu and Tapelo Xoki are making positive strides toward recovery. Shandu has rejoined training and is gradually building match fitness, playing 35 minutes in friendlies with the goal of reaching 90 minutes soon. Xoki, cleared for full training, is currently focusing on agility drills before resuming competitive play.

Goodman Mosele and Zakhele Lepasa are in the intermediate rehabilitation phase, having started running and strength training.

Thabiso Lebitso has also begun running and will transition to plyometric exercises next week, while Sandile Mthethwa and Ethan Visagie continue their recovery under specialized care for muscle strain and ankle sprain, respectively.

Injuries to senior players pose a significant challenge for Pirates. Their absence could disrupt the team’s rhythm and depth, especially with a busy schedule ahead.

SuperSport's poor start to the season, currently sitting 12th with just four points from four games, raises doubts about their threat level.

Compounding their struggles, they are without two key players—Grant Margeman, sidelined with a ligament tear, and prolific striker Bradley Grobler, nursing a knee injury.

However, their recent signings signal intent. Additions like Vincent Pule, Nyiko Mobbie, Keanin Ayer, and Brooklyn Poggenpoel bring quality, while Tashreeq Morris has been brought in to fill the void left by Grobler.

If these new arrivals can quickly gel and hit form, SuperSport could still turn things around and become a dangerous opponent later in the season.

In their pursuit of defending the MTN8 title this season, Orlando Pirates faced off against Gavin Hunt's SuperSport United, securing an impressive 3-1 victory.

However, the league encounters between the two sides have been more balanced. In their last five league meetings, SuperSport have won twice, Pirates once, with the other two matches ending in draws.

This head-to-head history shows that while Pirates hold the upper hand in cup competitions, SuperSport remain a tricky opponent in the league.

Mohau Nkota has been a standout performer in the Dstv Diski Challenge for Pirates, making it no surprise when coach Jose Riveiro promoted him to the senior team.

The 19-year-old has already made two appearances and is gradually being integrated into the squad, following a similar path to Relebohile Mofokeng’s promotion.

Nkota’s development suggests he could become an important asset for the Buccaneers in the near future.

Neo Rapoo has emerged as a revelation for SuperSport United this season under Gavin Hunt’s guidance. Despite his youth, Rapoo plays with the composure of a seasoned professional, competing confidently with experienced players like Lyle Lakay.

Hunt has expressed great admiration for the youngster, hinting that his talent is destined for bigger stages and he may not remain at the club for long.