Orlando Pirates head coach Jose Riveiro is showering accolades on assistant coach Mandla Ncikazi for his significant influence on the team’s achievements following their recent MTN8 victory. The Buccaneers secured their historic third consecutive MTN8 title with a 3-1 win over Stellenbosch FC in the final, marking a total of five trophies since Riveiro took the helm.
While Riveiro has been in the spotlight for the triumph, he was quick to highlight Ncikazi’s crucial contributions since joining the club in July 2021 as part of Josef Zinnbauer’s coaching team.
“Mandla’s role, along with others in our staff, is vital for someone like me—a foreign coach navigating a new environment,” Riveiro explained. “Football may be universal, but each country has its unique flavor, and South African football has its own identity. The faster I learn about this, the better it is for both me and the team.
“Mandla has extensive experience in South African football—both as a player and a coach. His deep understanding of the local scene allows me to adapt quickly, enhancing my insight into the players and our opponents.”
Riveiro emphasized that it’s not just about tactical knowledge; everyone involved with the club contributes to the collective success, making it a collaborative effort.
With Riveiro and Ncikazi at the helm, Orlando Pirates are poised for continued success on the field.
