Orlando Pirates have entered a new chapter as assistant coach Mandla Ncikazi takes the reins for the rest of the season, following the early departure of head coach Jose Riveiro.
Riveiro, who was granted an early release from his contract, took charge of his final match on Tuesday night — a dominant 3-0 win over Golden Arrows. The victory served as a fitting farewell for the Spaniard, who brought silverware and stability during his three-year tenure.
With just a few games left in the season, Pirates have confirmed that Ncikazi will step in as interim coach, supported by performance analyst Rayaan Jacobs and the rest of the technical team.
“Ncikazi to Lead the Final Stretch”
In an official statement, the club said: “The remaining matches of the season will be overseen by Assistant Coach Mandla Ncikazi, who will take charge of the team on an interim basis.”
Despite his exit, Riveiro made it clear he won’t be joining another PSL club, stating: “Never. Once a Buccaneer, always a Buccaneer. Orlando Pirates is the only team I could coach in South Africa.”
During his time with the Soweto giants, Riveiro led the club to five trophies, leaving a legacy that will be hard to forget. Now, all eyes are on Ncikazi as he steers the Buccaneers through the final matches of the campaign.
