Orlando Pirates have been relying a lot more on their youth structures of later and have often been rewarded.
Injuries and disciplinary issues have seen Pirates coach Jose Riveiro using the reserve side to plug a few gaps.
Riveiro has shown faith in Pirates products
The process of promoting and integrating players for the Pirates DDC structures has been a gradual one. Under Riveiro, the likes of Relebohile Mofokeng, Thabiso Sesane, Mohau Nkota have been regular features. Furthermore, defenders Mbekezeli Mbokazi and Siya Ndlozihave also earned the trust of the Spanish tactician recently.
What has also been telling is the bravery of Riveiro in the usage of the players promoted this season. He has not been afraid to play Nkota in big games, whether the Soweto Derby against Kaizer Chiefs or a steaming atmosphere away to CR Belouizdad in Algeria. Ndlozi also came in during a hotly contests CAF Champions League affair against Al Ahly in Cairo and didn’t look out of place. The most recent success story for the Pirates stuctures, however, has been Mbokazi. The SA U20 captain was thrust in to start in a back three against Mamelodi Sundowns in a high profile top of the table clash.
Madiba next in line?
It is this confidence that will encourage the other youngsters to believe they have a pathway at Pirates. Now according to Soccer-Laduma, there is set to be yet another beneficiary of Riveiro’s trust. This in 23-year-old Yanga Madiba.
“Orlando Pirates could soon introduce another rising star to their first team, with young talent Yanga Madiba understood to be on the verge of making his senior debut. The Siya crew has been reliably informed that Madiba is being considered for selection in upcoming matches, as head coach Jose Riveiro continues to integrate young players into his squad. The 23-year-old left-footed player is said to have impressed Riveiro in training and is regarded as one of the most promising talents in South African football.” Wrote the publication.
Madiba is a versatile left-footed player that can play on either flank both as an attacker and a defender. Pirates fans, would you be happy to see another young player integrated into your first team? Let us know by clicking on the comment tab. Or by emailing info@thesouthafrican.com or sending a WhatsApp to 060 011 021 1. You can also follow @TheSAnews on X and The South African on Facebook for the latest news.
