Pitso Mosimane has turned attack minded players into great defensive midfielders, with Bongani Zungu, the most notable one.
Switching positions is one most difficult thing professional stars have to endure. Sometimes a game calls for a different tactical approach and players must adapt with immediate effect. Mosimane has turned Rivaldo Coetzee into a superb holding midfielder. Riva has played as a central defender for the greater part of his career.
The Kakamas born star has since been converted into an midfield anchor. Riva is growing through leaps and bounds. His reading of the game is unquestionable. Very calm on the ball and barely loses possession. Coetzee caught the eye of Bafana Bafana mentor, Molefi Ntseki, and was recently called up as a midfielder though didn't pitch due to an injury.
Mosimane saw something in Riva that many didn't spot. The Sundowns coach says Riva is a 'typical European number six.' In the not so distant past Coetzee watched his dream of plying in Europe pass him by due to an injury. There is still hope for Riva to see his dream come true. With Mosimane having exported players to Europe before, Riva can trust his mentor, and focus on his improvement.
His international career still looks bright. Ntseki shows confidence in the player and time is still on Riva's side.
