The Spaniard, who replaced Swiss coach Marcel Koller last May, is yet to taste victory in an official match since taking charge.
Under Riveiro’s guidance, Ahly were held twice in the FIFA Club World Cup before exiting the tournament at the group stage following a defeat in the third game.
Riveiro’s domestic campaign also got off to a rocky start as the reigning champions were held to a 2-2 draw by Modern Sports in their league opener last Saturday.
A late goal from summer signing Yassin Marei rescued a point, but the performance drew criticism from supporters frustrated by the slow start despite the squad’s quality.
Riveiro faced scrutiny over his team selection and tactical approach, adding pressure ahead of Friday’s fixture against Pharco, who are expected to adopt a similarly defensive strategy.
“Our result against Modern Sports was frustrating, but as the matches come thick and fast, the team’s performance will improve,” Riveiro said in the post-match press conference.
“Our opponents played a defensive game, and we created chances but failed to convert them. It’s still early in the season, so mistakes are normal.”
Ahly will be without defender Yasser Ibrahim, sidelined by a muscle injury.
Pharco, meanwhile, will be looking to bounce back from a heavy 6-0 defeat to Ahly in their last meeting during the previous season’s finale.
Pharco have also seen significant changes, losing key players including defender Yassin Marei, who transferred to Al Ahly, and attackers Amr Nasser and Ahmed Sherif, who joined rivals Zamalek.
Full-back Jefferson Encada has moved to Portuguese side Estrela Amadora.
Their new recruits have yet to fill the void left by these departures.
Pharco opened their league campaign with a goalless draw against ENPPI and coach Ahmed Khatab will be hoping for a positive result against the defending champions.
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