José Riveiro praises the depth of Orlando Pirates squad after 3-0 ...

Orlando Pirates head coach José Riveiro praised his side’s depth following their 3-0 win over Polokwane City at the Orlando Stadium on Tuesday.

While Monnapule Saleng opened the scoring, it was substitute, Evidence Makgopa’s late brace that solidified the win and showed the strength Pirates can draw from their bench.

Orlando Pirates head coach José Riveiro expressed satisfaction with his team’s ability to bring in players who can make a significant impact, even late in the game.

“I’m happy with the contribution from the bench one more time. It was crucial… Like everybody who is not in the starting eleven, it’s difficult, but the people who are coming from the bench are showing that they are ready to die for the team even if they get a minute,”

This wasn’t the first time Pirates’ substitutes played a decisive role. Riveiro recalled similar moments in previous matches.

“It was crucial in Botswana; it was crucial against Chippa as well… and today it was exceptionally good.”

He pointed to the collective effort of players like Makgopa and Karim Kimvuidi, who have embraced their roles off the bench and contributed when called upon.

Riveiro went on to emphasise the importance of having a squad that is always ready to adapt to different situations.

“In modern football, the contribution from the players coming five, 10, 15, 20, 25 minutes is extremely important,”

This is particularly relevant for Pirates, who are competing on multiple fronts, including domestic competitions and continental engagements.

The victory further demonstrated Pirates’ growing resilience this season, having now won seven of their opening nine games, but Riveiro cautioned against complacency.

“We know how difficult it is, and we are working so hard, and the moment that we don’t put the attention there, we’re not going to find ourselves in this space,” he said.

With a crucial fixture against Richards Bay up next, the Pirates coach is already looking ahead.

“We need to focus only on that one [Richards Bay],” he said, aware of the challenges ahead.

With a squad ready to step up when needed, Riveiro’s side looks well-equipped to handle the demands of a long and gruelling season.

POWER Sports