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Rhulani Mokwena 16-9GOAL
Dingizwe Gwala

Can former Mamelodi Sundowns coach Rhulani Mokwena survive fan fury, poor form and trigger happy Wydad Casablanca board to turn it around at the Moroccan giants?

Rhulani Mokwena's honeymoon stage is over at Wydad Casablanca, and it is now to prove his worth as he faces a significant amount of pressure.

Every relationship has its honeymoon phase, that fleeting period of bliss before reality sets in. For Mokwena, the head coach of Wydad, that phase seems to have evaporated in the smoke of recent turmoil.

Following a brutal weekend where he faced the wrath of passionate fans, his team has now suffered back-to-back defeats, leaving them languishing in a disheartening ninth place. With only two victories in their first eight Botola Pro 1 matches, the pressure is mounting.

Once celebrated as one of the finest coaches to come from Mzansi - while some may think otherwise - he did well at PSL defending champions Mamelodi Sundowns. Mokwena now finds himself in the spotlight, grappling with the weight of expectations to reclaim glory in the league and secure a spot in the Caf Champions League. If the current trend continues, the dream of finishing his two-year contract and participating in next year’s Fifa Club World Cup may slip through his fingers.

Join GOAL as we delve into the trials facing "The Son of the Soil" in Morocco.

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  • Rhulani Mokwena of Wydad CasablancaWydad Casablanca on Facebook

    A harsh reality for coaches

    North African football is known for its unforgiving nature when it comes to coaching staff. Clubs like Al Ahly, Esperance, and Zamalek have seen numerous coaches come and go, each under relentless scrutiny. Now, as Mokwena steps into the high-pressure environment of Wydad, the stakes couldn’t be higher. As a relatively young coach with a modest track record, the pressure to perform is palpable.

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  • Rhulani Mokwena, Wydad ACWydad AC

    The weight of race

    While some might suggest that race plays a role in Mokwena’s challenges, the reality is more nuanced. Wydad hired him knowing the hurdles he might face, including potential racial biases that have historically hindered many black coaches in the region. With only a few exceptions, like Mosimane and Florent Ibenge, the path to success for black coaches in North Africa has been fraught with difficulties. Mokwena’s race could become a double-edged sword if results don’t improve; he risks being judged not only for his performance but also through the lens of societal biases.

  • Rhulani Mokwena, Wydad Athletic Club, September 2024Wydad Athletic Club

    Confidence in the storm

    Amidst the hostility from fans, Mokwena has displayed remarkable resilience. In a recent press conference, after he lost to Berkane, he took ownership of the situation, maintaining his commitment to the club’s goals. His positive attitude, despite the backlash, speaks volumes about his confidence - a trait that could inspire his players and help mend the strained relationship with supporters.

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  • Rhulani Mokwena, Wydad AC, October 2024Wydad AC

    Pressure from top sides

    Transitioning to a new league and culture is never easy, especially in the diverse football landscape of African football where the ball moves faster and slower in different regions. Mokwena is tasked with restoring Wydad to its rightful place at the top of Moroccan football after a disappointing season last year, which saw them miss out on both the league title and a chance at the Champions League. Rivals like Berkane and FAR Rabat are performing well, adding to the urgency of Mokwena's situation.

  • Rhulani Mokwena of Wydad CasablancaBackpagepix

    The immediate test

    With the club backing Mokwena in the transfer market, he has brought in new talent tailored to his vision. However, assurances from the board can only go so far; he likely has just two matches before the international break to turn things around - first against FUS Rabat away, then back home to face the fans against IR Tanger. It’s not all doom and gloom, though - Wydad is just six points off the league leaders. A series of positive results before the year’s end could be pivotal for Mokwena’s future. As Mokwena navigates this turbulence, the question remains: Can he transform the tide and restore the faith of the fans? Only time will tell.

  • Rhulani Mokwena, Wydad ACWydad AC

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