Orlando Pirates are still gunning for silverware on several fronts. What’s next for Jose Riveiro’s talented Sea Robbers side?
VAR spared Orlando Pirates twice
The Video Assistant Referee intervened not once, but twice, to the relief of Orlando Pirates fans across the continent watching their 0-0 draw in the first leg of the Champions League semi-finals against Pyramids FC. The Sea Robbers must travel north to contest the second leg on Friday, 25 April. That match kicks off at 20:00 SA time.
Soweto Derby clashes loom large for Pirates
As fate would have it, Pirates and Chiefs meet twice in quick succession at the sharp end of the 2024-2025 campaign. First, they do battle in the Betway Premiership on Saturday, 03 May at 15:00. Then, they meet in the Nedbank Cup final on Saturday, 10 May. Mfundo Vilakazi will not be available for the Glamour Boys as he’ll be on Afcon U20 duty. Bucs defender Mbekezeli Mbokazi is also part of the U20 Afcon group, but Pirates are keen to withdraw him to have the teenager available for the clashes against Chiefs.
Rulani’s salary might be a problem
Rulani Mokwena will leave Wydad AC at the end of the campaign. He’s been strongly linked with the Orlando Pirates job, but that move looks unlikely because of his salary demands. Unless the Sea Robbers shift their wage structure, former Sundowns boss Mokwena will unlikely accept a pay cut.
“The Spaniard (Riveiro) recently confirmed that he will leave the Buccaneers when his contract expires at the end of the season,” KickOff confirmed.
“The report adds that Riveiro’s salary is believed to be significantly lower than Mokwena’s, and the Moroccan giants are currently working towards parting ways with their coach by mutual consent.”
Will Pirates manage to make the Champions League final?
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