When Jose Riveiro arrived at Orlando Pirates in 2022, few anticipated the transformation that was about to unfold. A relatively obscure figure in South African football, the Spanish coach was met with scepticism and nicknamed a “plumber”—a label laced with doubt about his credentials. Three years later, that same plumber exits the scene as a Cup King, having restored pride, silverware, and structure to one of the nation’s most storied clubs.

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A Farewell Fitting of a Champion

Riveiro’s departure on Tuesday night marked the end of a chapter defined by resilience, tactical acumen, and tangible success. He signed off with a resounding 3-0 triumph over Golden Arrows at Orlando Stadium—a result that not only delighted fans but also kept the Buccaneers firmly in the hunt for a coveted second-place league finish.

His exit was emotional but fitting, as the team he leaves behind is arguably stronger, more stable, and significantly more ambitious than the one he inherited.

From Leaks to Leadership

When Riveiro stepped into the role, Pirates were adrift, having finished a disappointing sixth in the Premiership with only 44 points under Mandla Ncikazi. There was a lack of cohesion, direction, and consistency. Doubts loomed large.

But like a true craftsman, Riveiro went to work—quietly and methodically fixing what was broken. His first season yielded immediate results: two trophies and a clear signal that the Buccaneers were back in business.

Over the course of three years, he accumulated five major trophies—two Nedbank Cups and three MTN8 titles—while also establishing a culture of discipline and high standards. Pirates went from being a side of untapped potential to a team of proven pedigree. Riveiro became the plumber who not only patched the leaks but rebuilt the pipeline to success.

Jose Riveiro Reigns Supreme

While his league campaigns steadily improved, it was in cup competitions where Riveiro truly left his mark. In six domestic cup finals, his team walked away victorious five times—an enviable strike rate that has elevated him to near-mythical status among Pirates fans.

Even though his final cup outing ended in a narrow 2-1 defeat to Kaizer Chiefs, his reputation as a master of knockout football remains untarnished. Under his stewardship, Pirates developed a steely mindset and a knack for rising to the occasion when it mattered most.

Building a Platform for the Future

Rarely does a coach exit a club with the ship not just afloat but sailing strong. Riveiro leaves behind a squad that is balanced, well-drilled, and mentally robust. The team is no longer a patchwork of talent but a unit built on synergy, strategy, and self-belief.

His successor will step into a setup where the foundation is already laid—high expectations, yes, but also the tools and talent to meet them. Back-to-back top-two league finishes and the ever-present threat in cup competitions set the bar high, but they also prove what’s possible with the right leadership.

Rekindling Continental Ambition

Perhaps one of Riveiro’s most underrated achievements was restoring belief in Pirates’ ability to challenge on the continental stage. This season’s CAF Confederation Cup campaign saw them fall just short in the semi-finals against Pyramids FC, narrowly losing out 3-2 on aggregate after conceding in the dying minutes.

It wasn’t the fairytale ending, but it was a clear signal of intent. The Buccaneers showed they could stand toe-to-toe with Africa’s elite, and that taste of near-glory may well inspire a deeper run next season.

Closing the Domestic Gap

While Mamelodi Sundowns have remained the benchmark in South African football—dominating the league under Rhulani Mokwena—Riveiro’s Pirates have made steady strides to narrow the gulf.

From sixth place to consistent top-two finishes, Pirates have grown stronger with each passing season. In fact, during his final campaign, the team surpassed their best points tally under his watch, crossing the 54-point threshold with games to spare. The evidence is clear: the climb is real, and the gap is closing.

Legacy of a Master Fixer

Jose Riveiro didn’t arrive with a glowing resume or fanfare. He arrived with a plan, a calm demeanor, and a determination to succeed. Three years later, he departs as one of the most successful coaches in Orlando Pirates’ recent history—credited not just for the trophies, but for the structure, belief, and identity he helped instill.

The “plumber” label may have been intended as a slight. In the end, it became a badge of honour. Jose Riveiro fixed more than just leaks—he restored a giant.