Rulani Mokwena takes relaxed approach as Pyramids FC learn CAF Champions League opponents

South African coach Rulani Mokwena appeared completely at ease when Pyramids FC discovered their opponents for the CAF Champions League, watching the draw from Turkey with his feet up and a cup of tea in hand.

Mokwena was in Turkey when the Confederation of African Football (CAF) conducted the draw earlier this month. While the outcome determined the opening challenge of his new side’s continental campaign, the Pyramids FC head coach appeared to receive the news in typically calm fashion.

Sitting comfortably in the Black Sea region of Turkey, Mokwena rested his legs on a chair and sipped tea as the draw revealed that Pyramids FC would face Kenyan giants Gor Mahia.

The Egyptian club were not included among the seeded teams for the competition and will therefore begin their CAF Champions League campaign in the first preliminary round.

Pyramids FC will host Gor Mahia in the first leg on 5 September, before travelling for the return match on 12 September.

The relaxed scene reflected the composed manner in which Mokwena has often presented himself during his coaching career. The new Pyramids FC boss is known for carrying himself with grace and composure, and his reaction to the draw once again offered an image of a manager remaining unruffled by the demands of a major continental competition.

The tie against Gor Mahia will be an important first step for Pyramids FC as they begin their pursuit of progress in the CAF Champions League. Their opening match will be played at home before the decisive second leg in Kenya a week later.

Mokwena also brings considerable experience of the competition to his new role. Across 32 CAF Champions League matches, he has recorded 16 wins, 10 draws and six defeats.

Although he has not won the tournament, Mokwena has taken part in two semi-final campaigns. That record gives him a strong understanding of the competition, even though his current Pyramids FC squad must first negotiate the preliminary round before advancing further.

For now, the immediate task is to prepare for Gor Mahia and ensure that Pyramids FC make the most of home advantage in the first meeting on 5 September. The return fixture on 12 September will then determine which side progresses from the tie.