After the exit from the Champions League: Jose Rivero spoke about the possibilities for the next goals!

Following the CAF Champion's League exit, Jose Rivero has expressed his support for his team and the youngsters in the squad, but the Spanish coach is preparing to leave the club at the end of the season due to the expiry of his contract.

The Spanish coach has made a huge impact at the South African club, five titles since his arrival as they continue to challenge for the league against leaders Mamelodi Sundowns and reach the Nedbank Cup final as well.

After narrowly losing 3-2 to Pyramids in the CAF Champions League semi-finals, Riveiro was visibly devastated as his young and inexperienced team saw their continental journey come to an end. Notably, Makhehleni Makhaula was the only player in the entire squad with prior experience in the competition’s group stage.

“I’m extremely proud of the entire team—not just in this tournament, but throughout the long journey we’ve shared this year. Qualifying for the Champions League was an outstanding achievement for all of them, and I say this with great honor,” Riveiro stated.

Following a hard-fought 3-2 defeat to Pyramids in the CAF Champions League semi-finals, Orlando Pirates coach Jose Riveiro expressed pride in his young squad despite their heartbreaking exit. With only Makhehleni Makhaula having prior group-stage experience in the competition, the team's inexperience proved a challenge—yet Riveiro sees great promise in their development.

"I'm incredibly proud of this team, not just in this tournament, but throughout our entire journey this season," Riveiro said. "Qualifying for the Champions League was a remarkable achievement, and they’ve represented the club with honor."

He emphasized the potential of his youthful squad, many of whom are just 19 or 20 years old. "We’ve consistently fielded very young players, which is fantastic for the future. They still have areas to improve, but they’ve shown they can compete at this level. This is promising for Orlando Pirates—we have a talented, ambitious group that will only grow stronger."

While acknowledging the disappointment of elimination, Riveiro remained forward-looking. "With another year of experience in a competition like the Champions League, this team will keep progressing. There’s much to celebrate, even if today we feel sadness. The future is bright for this club."