Orlando Pirates head coach Jose Riveiro expressed his delight that Karim Kimvuidi put up his hand after being afforded a chance against Disciples FC.
The DR Congo youth international scored the stoppage time goal in their 4-0 drubbing over the Malagasy Premier League champions on Friday evening at Orlando Stadium.
That after an own goal, Relebohile Mofokeng and a stunner from Patrick Maswanganyi handed them a 3-0 lead at the time of heading into the break.
“I think it can only help him… to use the time that he’s getting, it’s difficult to get playing time in this group, especially in the position where he’s used to playing, in one of the three players up front,” Riveiro said over the 22-year-old midfielder.
“As one of three forwards, he played in a slightly different space than he’s used to – that is what players need to do [make an impact] when they come into the field, with 10 minutes, 12, 13, 30 minutes, show who they are a football player.”
As Riveiro often tends to shy away from singling out players, he spoke to the collective, within a huge squad, he implored players to make use of their chances within a season that could be tricky if they go deep into all competitions to chase major silverware.
“[They need to] show who they are during the week in training, how well prepared they are and don’t miss your opportunities, and today Karim. Let’s say the goal is very positive, I think it’s going to help him to be more confident the next time,” he added.
“Also for the fans to see Karim scoring, I think it’s good news, it’s not his strength, he’s more the player involved with the last or second last pass, but it’s good news for all of us [that he scored] and Karim is trying hard, we’re all happy to see Karim happy.”
Kimvuidi has scored three goals in 25 appearances for Pirates since joining the club from the now-defunct Maritzburg United in July 2023.
