Orlando Pirates will bring the curtain down on their 2024/25 campaign tonight when they host Magesi FC at Orlando Stadium, but while the on-field outcome is important, there are bigger decisions bubbling beneath the surface.
The Soweto giants enter their final fixture unbeaten under interim guidance, following the departure of coach Jose Riveiro earlier this month.
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Assistant coach Mandla Ncikazi stepped in to lead the side alongside Head Performance Analyst Rayaan Jacobs, who is heavily tipped for a reunion with Riveiro, now strongly linked with a move to Egyptian giants Al Ahly.
Sources indicate this could be Jacobs’ final outing with Pirates, despite having only recently returned to the club after previously serving as a first-team analyst and DStv Diski Challenge coach prior to his 2018 departure.
His short-term impact has been notable, helping steady the ship with a win and two draws in the last three matches.
Riveiro’s expected appointment at Al Ahly is reportedly being held up by internal disagreements at the Egyptian club, with KickOff reporting that the current interim coach has refused to work under the former Pirates boss – underlining why it is vital for Riveiro to have trusted personnel like Jacobs alongside him for what will be a high-pressure role in North Africa.
For Pirates, finishing the season on a high is about more than pride. It is a chance to cap off a turbulent campaign with renewed belief and to strengthen the case for continuity or change heading into next season.
The team is unbeaten since Riveiro’s exit, and a positive result against Magesi would maintain that momentum while showcasing the resilience and adaptability of the current technical setup.
While there’s been an emphasis on giving youth a chance in recent games, the final fixture is expected to feature a mix of emerging talent and seasoned campaigners.
Evidence Makgopa, who hasn’t featured since the Nedbank Cup final against Kaizer Chiefs, could be recalled to the matchday squad.
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Midfielders Ndabayithethwa Ndlondlo and Goodman Mosele may also get a run as the club evaluates squad depth ahead of the off-season.
With Jacobs potentially bidding farewell, and several squad members playing for their futures, the stakes are high – both on and off the field. Orlando Stadium is set for a finale that could shape the direction of the Buccaneers’ next chapter.
