Pirates Triumph as Riveiro Bids Farewell

Orlando Pirates delivered a commanding 3–0 victory over Golden Arrows at Orlando Stadium on May 13, 2025, providing a fitting send-off for departing head coach José Riveiro. This match marked the conclusion of Riveiro’s successful three-year tenure with the Buccaneers.

16th Minute: Tshegofatso Mabasa opened the scoring, finishing a clever layoff from Relebohile Mofokeng.

61st Minute: Bandile Shandu doubled the lead by tapping in a cross from Deon Hotto.

66th Minute: Kabelo Dlamini sealed the victory with a well-taken free kick.

Golden Arrows had moments of promise, notably when Nduduzo Sibiya’s shot hit the upright in the 23rd minute, but they couldn’t find the back of the net.

Farewell to José Riveiro:

Fans paid tribute to Riveiro with banners and placards, including one in Spanish that read, “Muchas Gracias Padre Jose Riveiro Por Siempre Leyenda” (“Many Thanks Father Jose Riveiro Forever a Legend”). Under his leadership, Pirates secured five cup titles in three seasons and became a formidable force both domestically and continentally. Riveiro’s final match came just days after the disappointment of losing the Nedbank Cup final to arch-rivals Kaizer Chiefs. Despite this, a dedicated group of supporters braved the chilly Johannesburg evening to bid their coach farewell. Following the match, Riveiro made his final speech and took a last lap around Orlando Stadium.

Riveiro’s departure marks the end of a significant chapter in Orlando Pirates’ history, leaving behind a legacy of success and a team poised for future accomplishments.