Riveiro Pays Tribute to Ncikazi After MTN8 Triumph
Orlando Pirates head coach, José Riveiro, took a moment to pay tribute to his assistant coach, Mandla Ncikazi, following the Buccaneers’ thrilling MTN8 victory. The Pirates clinched the prestigious trophy in a hard-fought final, and Riveiro made sure to acknowledge the contributions of his trusted assistant in helping guide the team to success.
Speaking after the match, Riveiro emphasized the importance of teamwork not only on the field but also among the coaching staff. “This victory is not just about the players on the pitch; it’s also about the incredible work done behind the scenes,” Riveiro said. “Mandla Ncikazi has been a crucial part of our coaching setup, and I cannot overstate how much his experience and insights have contributed to our journey to this MTN8 triumph.”
Ncikazi, who has been with Pirates since 2021, has played a key role in the team’s tactical preparations, particularly during challenging moments in the season. His knowledge of South African football and his ability to connect with the players has made him an invaluable asset in Riveiro’s backroom staff.
Riveiro went on to explain how Ncikazi’s influence has been critical in maintaining the squad’s focus throughout the tournament. “Mandla understands the dynamics of South African football deeply. His ability to motivate the players and his tactical acumen have been vital in ensuring we remained competitive throughout the competition. This victory is as much his as it is the players’ or mine,” Riveiro added.
Under the guidance of Riveiro and Ncikazi, Orlando Pirates have managed to build a cohesive unit, blending tactical discipline with attacking flair, something that was on full display during the MTN8 final.
The partnership between Riveiro and Ncikazi has flourished since Riveiro took over at Pirates, with the two coaches complementing each other’s strengths. While Riveiro brought fresh ideas and a modern approach from his time coaching in Europe, Ncikazi has provided the local expertise and a deep understanding of the PSL landscape.
Riveiro acknowledged this dynamic, saying, “Having someone like Mandla on my team, who knows the league and understands the players, has been invaluable. His work behind the scenes has allowed us to prepare effectively for each challenge we faced in the MTN8.”
With the MTN8 triumph now under their belt, Orlando Pirates are looking to build on this momentum as they continue their league campaign. Riveiro is optimistic that with Ncikazi by his side, the team will be well-prepared for the challenges ahead. “This is just the beginning,” Riveiro concluded. “We have bigger goals to achieve, and with Mandla and the rest of the team, I’m confident we can continue to bring success to the club.”
Mandla Ncikazi, who has stayed humble in the spotlight, has continued to work diligently in the background, helping to create a positive environment for the players to thrive in. The MTN8 victory serves as a testament to the strong foundation built by Riveiro, Ncikazi, and the entire Orlando Pirates coaching staff, setting the stage for future successes.
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