Jose Riveiro: Orlando Pirates Coach Responds to Criticism Amidst Team’s Goal Scoring Spree

• Jose Riveiro remains open to criticism despite the team's recent goal-scoring success
• Critics point to concerns over Orlando Pirates' consistency and the Spaniard's selection
• The hot and cold Buccaneers have scored an impressive 16 goals in their last five games

Despite his team's recent prolific scoring form, Orlando Pirates manager, Jose Riveiro, has openly acknowledged and accepted criticism.

Pirates have encountered mixed fortunes since resuming play in 2024.

They have played nine games, starting with a 1-1 stalemate against Mamelodi Sundowns at Loftus Versfeld, netting an impressive 16 goals in their last five matches.

While the Buccaneers have shown promise, securing a spot in the quarter-finals of the Nedbank Cup, they have faced major setbacks.

Riveiro's men drew against relegation-threatened Cape Town Spurs and Moroka Swallows and lost to Sekhukhune United.

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With a 12-point gap and having played three more games than DSTV Premiership league leaders Mamelodi Sundowns, Riveiro and his players have been scrutinized by critics.

The Spaniard acknowledged the significance of constructive criticism in maintaining motivation and progress within a highly competitive environment. Despite the impressive goal tally, he stressed the need for maturity and consistency to capitalize on their recent successes.

“We’re in a highly competitive environment and we have to accept when the result is not the one we’re looking for, the critics will come," he said, as quoted by iDiski Times.

The Sea Robbers gear up to face AmaZulu in the Nedbank Cup, aiming for a berth in the semifinals at Moses Mabhida on Saturday, April, 13.

Riveiro's appointment in June 2022 had raised hopes of ending the club's prolonged wait for a league title, following a commendable second-place finish in the 2022/23 season. However, they continue to strive for their first league title since 2011/12, with the squad yet to challenge Mamelodi Sundowns' dominance convincingly.

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Despite notable victories, such as overcoming Kaizer Chiefs in the Soweto Derby, as reported by Goal, inconsistency remains a concern.

Riveiro gives reason for Tshegofatso Mabasa’s form

Sports Brief reported that Riveiro discussed the impact of Tshegofatso Mabasa at the club and why he is thriving this season.

Mabasa was deemed surplus to requirements in the last few seasons.

The 27-year-old bagged his first career hat-trick as they thrashed Golden Arrows 7-1 in the DStv Premiership.