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History Maker Mokwena Joins Wydad As Head Coach

  • July 11, 2024
  • 2 min read
  • 557 Views
History Maker Mokwena Joins Wydad As Head Coach

Wydad Casablanca, the Moroccan giants, have appointed former Mamelodi Sundowns coach Rulani Mokwena.

Mokwena’s appointment comes after his surprise departure from Sundowns a few weeks ago, reportedly due to a disagreement with sporting director Flemming Berg.

The former Orlando Pirates coach takes on the challenge of restoring Wydad’s glory days. The club finished a disappointing sixth in the Moroccan Botola League last season.

This poor showing, particularly with rivals Raja Casablanca winning the title, fueled Wydad’s desire to secure a top African coach for this demanding position.

“Welcome aboard, Coach Rhulani Mokwena! Ready to lead us to victory!” Wydad declared in a statement.

Mokwena boasts an impressive record. During his second stint at Sundowns starting in 2020, he guided the team to four league titles, including the most recent one. He also achieved historic success, leading Sundowns to the CAF Champions League semi-finals twice consecutively. Last season, he capped it off by winning the inaugural African Football League.

Taking charge in October 2022 after Sundowns’ MTN8 semifinal defeat to Pirates, Mokwena compiled a remarkable record. He won 60 out of 91 matches as head coach, losing only nine.

Interestingly, Wydad eliminated Sundowns from the 2022/23 Champions League semi-finals on the away goals rule.

Mokwena likely aspires to emulate Pitso Mosimane’s success with Egyptian giants Al Ahly. Mosimane led Al Ahly to two Champions League titles and three Club World Cup bronze medals.

With the upcoming expansion of the FIFA Club World Cup next year, Sundowns, Al Ahly, and Wydad will all feature in it. There’s also a chance for a renewed clash between Sundowns and Wydad in two years time in the Champions League.

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Robin-Duke Madlala

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