Comment by Smiso Msomi
Orlando Pirates’ unbeaten run to the 2024/2025 CAF Champions League quarter-finals has captured the imagination of football fans across Africa.
The Soweto giants have showcased a blend of tactical discipline, strategic flexibility and youthful exuberance, propelling them to the next stage of the competition.
At the heart of this success is Spanish coach Jose Riveiro, who has expertly navigated the challenges posed by some of Africa’s most formidable clubs.
Additionally, a fresh crop of young talent has added a dynamic spark to the team’s campaign.
Riveiro’s tactical acumen has been crucial to Pirates’ success in the tournament.
Understanding that continental football demands balance, he has often set his team up with a compact defensive shape, absorbing pressure before striking on the counter.
20+143 - Mohau Nkota (20 years 143 days) is the youngest ever player to score three away goals in a single CAF Champions League campaign for Orlando Pirates. Trusted. pic.twitter.com/A7k3q2wA2n
This approach was particularly evident in the quarter-final first leg against MC Alger, where Pirates earned a crucial 1-0 win at Stade du 5 Juillet on Tuesday night.
The victory extended their unbeaten run to 11 matches, and placed them in the driver’s seat ahead of the second leg at Orlando Stadium.
It was a significant result, especially as it handed a rare defeat to an MC Alger side that had been in excellent form.
For Riveiro, this win added to the sense of pedigree shown earlier in the group stages, notably with their triumph over the 12-time CAF Champions League winners, Al Ahly, in Cairo.
That victory earned Pirates top spot in Group C with a club-record 14 points from six matches, maintaining their unbeaten streak.
It was a message to the continent that Pirates weren’t just participants in the competition: they were contenders.
Against top teams like Al Ahly, CR Belouizdad and MC Alger, Riveiro has set up his team to defend resolutely and strike when the opportunity arises.
This pragmatic approach has proven effective, as Pirates have frustrated their more established opponents by absorbing pressure and exploiting weaknesses at crucial moments.
They're only 20s and 19. They should be worried about fashion and beautiful huns, but they're carrying a big institution like Orlando Pirates❤️🥺🖤☠️
WE'RE NOT WORTHY pic.twitter.com/5aP8mFv3MU
The first-leg win over MC Alger, with an away-goal advantage, further highlighted Riveiro’s careful game management and belief in his side’s resilience.
While Riveiro’s tactical nous has been key, the rise of young players like Relebohile Mofokeng, Mohau Nkota and Mbekezeli Mbokazi has added a fresh dimension.
Mofokeng’s vision and creativity have provided a spark in attack, while Nkota’s tireless work rate and speed have been vital in getting crucial goals.
Mbokazi, with his strength and enthusiasm, has brought an unpredictable edge to Pirates’ defence, making him a vital cog even at this early stage in his career.
These young talents have complemented the team’s experienced core, providing balance and energy.
☠️ ⏪️ 𝗬𝗔𝗗𝗛𝗖𝗧𝗔𝗠 ⏪️
🎤 Thalente Mbatha
🎤 Mohau Nkota
🆚 @THEDEAN1921
🏟 Stade du 5-Juillet-1962
🗓️ 1 April 2025
⚫️⚪️🔴⭐️#OrlandoPirates#OnceAlways pic.twitter.com/4ORLxVpXrL
They’ve allowed Pirates to play with fluidity and precision, transitioning effectively from defence to attack.
Their youthful exuberance has been a vital ingredient in Pirates’ ability to compete at the highest level of African football, something that sets them apart from the likes of Mamelodi Sundowns.
As Pirates prepare for the second leg of their quarter-final tie against MC Alger, their unbeaten run and the confidence gained from previous victories will serve them well.
Whether they reach the semi-finals remains to be seen, but their journey thus far has demonstrated that they are more than capable of challenging Africa’s finest.