sportskeeda
Orlando Pirates head coach Jose Riveiro has provided a comprehensive view on the limited playing opportunities for Boitumelo Radiopane during his first full season under the tutelage of the Spanish coach.
After impressive showings in the Dstv Diski Challenge, where he secured the Golden Boot and earned Player of the Season honors, Radiopane was promoted to the first team in the 2021/22 season.
Nevertheless, he has encountered difficulties in achieving a consistent spot in the lineup and was subsequently loaned to Cape Town Spurs for the next two seasons following his breakout campaign; his tenure with the Urban Warriors was, however, marred by a serious bone fracture injury in June 2023.
Recently, after earning Riveiro’s trust, the 22-year-old netted his first senior goal for the club in the 8-1 annihilation of Marumo Gallants. The Pirates bench advocated for a penalty given to the team to be awarded to Radiopane, aimed at uplifting his spirits, which greatly pleased the 49-year-old coach.
“I have previously stated that the human side of this group [of players] is extraordinary this season, to be honest. They continue to make us proud for reasons that I cannot publicly disclose, as they are private matters within the team,” Riveiro commented.
As he enters the final year of his three-year contract, Riveiro explained that the Sebokeng striker’s irregular starting position is attributed to stiff competition from experienced players in a formation that generally employs a single center-forward.
“The players support one another, recognizing that the fight for positions on the team, especially for players like Radiopane, is intense. He is contending with a Bafana Bafana striker and last season’s leading goal scorer, Tshegofatso Mabasa,” noted the Buccaneers’ coach.
“It’s tough to find playing time in a squad that typically features just one number 9, but his daily efforts, dedication, professionalism, and the performance against [vs Gallants] were all promising. Everyone was elated to see Radiopane on the field, seizing the opportunity to score a goal and gain confidence, as we need everyone fully engaged.
The three-time MTN8 champion expressed his joy in witnessing long-term injured players return to the field as they brace for a busy match schedule next year, both domestically and on the continental stage.
“We are about to face a very busy schedule in January and February. It’s encouraging to see Tapelo [Xoki] back and getting his first minutes after an extended absence. Azola Tshobeni is also stepping up and earning some playing time,” Riveiro remarked.
“Rele [Mofokeng] is slowly beginning to showcase the potential he holds for the team, so there are numerous positive aspects surrounding the [8-1 vs Gallants] victory. The outcome is significant, but if we analyze the finer points over the course of 90 minutes, there are plenty of upsides for the team.”
