Torreira plots ‘universal’ Chiefs as Magosi surge gathers pace
Kabelo Boranabi | Monday March 9, 2026 09:10
Stepping into the shoes of former Chiefs captain and club icon Pontsho ‘Piro’ Moloi was never going to be a straightforward assignment. Yet Torreira is gradually stitching his name into the hearts of the Magosi faithful. Tasked with delivering a top-three league finish and a cup triumph, the Spaniard appears to be ticking the early boxes. Under his guidance, Chiefs have recorded five victories and two draws, conceding just once in the seven-game unbeaten run.
The momentum stretches to nine matches dating back to last year, lifting Magosi to third place on the standings. Forward Ronaldo Fortune believes the biggest change under the new coach has been psychological rather than tactical. “I think the biggest thing he has brought so far is the mentality. We go into every game wanting to win. Whether we play well or not, that mentality is something he has really tweaked since coming here. That is to get a win in every game we play,” said Fortune.
Despite the renewed belief and defensive solidity, Chiefs have been somewhat blunt in attack. The side has scored just seven goals in seven matches under Torreira, with their most recent outing against TAFIC ending in a goalless stalemate. Club captain, Lebopo Moremi, has urged supporters to remain patient, insisting the team is still adapting to the Spaniard’s philosophy.
“We are still gelling into the coach’s methods. At the moment, the most important thing is winning games, even if it is by small margins,” Moremi said.
For his part, Torreira believes the team is moving in the right direction as he pursues his ambition of transforming Chiefs into a universal team capable of adapting to any situation on the pitch.
“We are training everything because football is not only about attack but also defence,” he said.
“How you play is the most important thing. My target is to improve the team in attack and defence day by day. I have only been here for about 50 days, and that is not enough time to build a universal team. I want to build a universal team.”
The Spaniard admitted the lack of goals remains a concern, but emphasised the importance of versatility. According to Torreira, Chiefs must be capable of adjusting their style depending on the opponent, whether through quick short passing or a more direct approach.
“I am proud of the level of the team and proud of the club,” he said.
“We are improving every day. This is a process for the club, the team and the coach. We need time, but this is a good way to start. ”
The La Coruña-born coach also praised the competitiveness of the local league and the quality of Botswana’s football talent.
Torreira faces his sternest examination yet this evening when Chiefs host second-placed Jwaneng Galaxy at the GU Stadium. The clash offers Magosi an opportunity to measure their progress against one of the league’s title contenders. A victory could pull Chiefs firmly into the championship conversation, but Torreira insists he is unfazed by the challenge.
“I am only focused on this game, and then we will see what happens.
“Galaxy have dangerous attacking players, and they are a compact team in both attack and defence. We must show our best version. I have experience in matches like this from Panama and India, so I am not scared,” he said.