José Riveiro has been unveiled as Al Ahly’s new head coach. The announcement came just two weeks after he left South African giants Orlando Pirates.
Riveiro takes over Africa’s most successful club at a critical time. Al Ahly will compete at the FIFA Club World Cup from 15 June to 13 July in the United States.
Riveiro’s Immediate Challenge at the Club World Cup
Riveiro will be thrown straight into high-stakes action. Al Ahly have been drawn in Group A alongside Inter Miami, Palmeiras and FC Porto. Only the top two teams in the group will qualify for the knockout stage of the 32-team tournament.
This competition will be a major test for the Spanish tactician. It comes shortly after he departs from Pirates, where he enjoyed immense success. He must now adapt quickly to life in Cairo and meet Al Ahly’s demanding expectations.
Al Ahly’s group features stars like Lionel Messi and Luis Suárez at Inter Miami. Furthermore, Palmeiras and Porto are both regular participants in continental tournaments. Therefore, Al Ahly will need to be at their best from the outset.
Al Ahly’s Rich Legacy and High Expectations
Al Ahly (131.71) are widely considered the kings of African soccer. They recently clinched their 45th Egyptian Premier League title. In addition, they have lifted the CAF Champions League trophy a record 12 times.
Four of those titles have come since the 2019-20 season. That dominance has shaped modern African soccer. Yet, this season, they were narrowly eliminated in the semi-finals on away goals by Mamelodi Sundowns.
Sundowns have also dethroned Orlando Pirates to win their eighth straight Betway Premiership title. They are now set to face Pyramids FC in the second leg of the CAF Champions League final. One of those teams will become the only side besides Wydad Casablanca to break Al Ahly’s CAF dominance since 2019-20.
Riveiro’s Success at Orlando Pirates
During his three-year spell in Johannesburg, Riveiro transformed Pirates into consistent trophy challengers. He won three MTN8 titles and two Nedbank Cups. Additionally, he led the team to the CAF Champions League semi-finals, losing 3-2 on aggregate to Pyramids FC.
He finished his time at the club with 80 wins, 26 draws and 26 defeats from 132 matches. Those numbers speak volumes about his impact. His departure followed a 3-0 victory over Golden Arrows, after which he thanked the club’s management for their support.
He also made an emotional promise to Pirates fans. “I will never coach any other team in SA,” he said. “I am a Buccaneer and Orlando Pirates is the only club I could have the motivation and courage, energy and heart to coach in SA.”
From Unknown to Respected Mentor
When Riveiro joined Orlando Pirates in 2022, he was largely unknown in South African soccer circles. He had previously coached Inter Turku in Finland but had little experience in Africa. Nevertheless, he quickly won over fans and critics alike.
His tactical discipline and man-management skills were widely praised. Pirates regularly challenged the far more financially powerful Sundowns. Despite Sundowns’ dominance, Riveiro’s team always posed a serious threat.
His ability to compete with limited resources has made him an attractive option for top African clubs. Now, with Al Ahly, he will have the budget and talent pool to aim even higher.
What Lies Ahead for Al Ahly and Riveiro
Al Ahly have not just hired a coach. They have hired a proven winner. Riveiro’s two-year contract gives him enough time to build a new era of dominance for the Cairo giants.
He must balance domestic success with international expectations. The Club World Cup provides a perfect opportunity to make an early statement. Moreover, success on this stage could boost Al Ahly’s global brand and attract more investment.
It could also influence online sports betting trends, as punters follow Riveiro’s team with interest. His side’s performances will be closely watched by fans and analysts alike.
