How Jose Riveiro is managing the Orlando Pirates squad

The Spanish mentor named the same line-up for a third successive match at the weekend when Pirates beat Dondol Stars to progress to the semifinals of the Nedbank Cup. 

Riveiro admits it wasn’t an easy decision with some in the group proving why they shouldn’t be omitted from the starting team. 

"As coaches sometimes we look for that continuity and consistency in our starting 11. It is exceptional for us that we can do it, it is something that we couldn't do during the season. Now we have a chance because players are healthy. We are getting good results and performances as well. It doesn't mean that we are not going to change anymore, sometimes we play the same starting 11 but not the same positions," he said.

With five games to go in the DStv Premiership, plus the ongoing cup run, Riveiro believes he can select any player to get the job done. 

"Usually, it's a good signal. It's good that we are repeating the starting 11 but fortunately for me, I have 28 players in the squad. Most of them are ready to play and hungry but it's a good signal," he added.

Pirates are in pole position to grab the Caf Champions League spot ahead of rivals Kaizer Chiefs and SuperSport United. 

Riveiro, who has already won the MTN8 in his maiden season, says it’s down to the dynamics in the squad. 

"We keep our relationship respectful, and very professional; the boys are doing a fantastic job. That's why the ones who are repeating in the starting 11 are still pushing because they can feel the pressure in the training as well," he concluded.