Lebogang Mothibantwa, once a midfield dynamo for Orlando Pirates, is drawing some compelling parallels between the current team under José Riveiro and the legendary squad from the Ruud Krol era.
According to Mothibantwa, Pirates might be on the brink of another golden era, reminiscent of their past successes.
The Krol Legacy: A High Bar
Back in the 2010/11 season, under the guidance of Ruud Krol, the Pirates secured the league title, a feat that marked a high point in the club’s history.
Krol’s influence didn’t stop there; the team he crafted continued to dominate the league, making a significant impact.
His tenure was particularly noteworthy for achieving a historic domestic treble, with Pirates winning the MTN8, Nedbank Cup, and the league title in that remarkable season.
A New Hope: José Riveiro’s Impact
Since Krol’s departure, Pirates have faced challenges in reclaiming the league title.
However, the arrival of José Riveiro has sparked a new wave of optimism.
Under Riveiro’s stewardship, the team has consistently finished in second place and secured spots in the CAF Champions League for two consecutive seasons.
Mothibantwa’s Confidence: Dethroning Sundowns
Mothibantwa, who played under Krol, sees potential in the current Pirates squad to challenge the dominance of Mamelodi Sundowns.
He praises the team’s fitness, defensive organization, and midfield prowess, noting their impressive performance on the field.
“This team is the fittest we’ve seen since Krol’s era,” Mothibantwa shared with FARPost.
He believes the current squad is hungry, well-trained, and exciting to watch, with a strong potential to reclaim the league title.
Riveiro’s Modern Touch: A Game-Changer
Mothibantwa is also full of praise for Riveiro’s influence on the team.
He notes that the current coach’s tactical insights and focus on modern football have been transformative.
“Pirates have significantly upgraded their technical team,” he said.
He compared their progress favorably against Sundowns, who have been known for their advanced use of technology and international standards.
Mothibantwa confidently asserts that this season won’t be easy for Sundowns, as Pirates are well-equipped to compete at the highest level.
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