Pitso Mosimane furious after first loss in Saudi Arabia: 'Al Ahli got humbled tonight, unacceptable'

• Mosimane's first loss in Saudi Arabia
• Frustrated with outcome
• Tied at the top of the table

WHAT HAPPENED: The celebrated South African coach could not hide his frustration after his team suffered a 4-1 loss against Al Akhdoud in a Saudi Arabian second-tier match played on Thursday night.

It was the first time Mosimane lost a game since taking over as Al Ahli coach. The experienced tactician apologised to the fans and promised to continue working towards their goal of earning promotion.

WHAT HE SAID: "We got humbled tonight. Unacceptable scoreline especially in front of our fans. No excuses, only apologies. Anyway, the race is still long, sorry," the 58-year-old said.

"Thanks for your support... We will keep fighting like the fighters! Stay strong also, you still have a long way to go. No shortcuts, endurance is key in any field."

THE BIGGER PICTURE: The defeat saw Al Ahli drop to third position on the table after 19 matches.

Four teams, Al Akhdoud, Al Hazem, Al-Faisaly, and Mosimane's team are on the same number of points but are separated by goal difference.

WHAT NEXT: Mosimane and his charges will be aiming at bouncing back when they play seventh-placed Al Kholood in their next game.