Rulani Mokwena backed for Egyptian Premier League and CAF Champions League success

South African coach Rulani Mokwena has been backed to challenge for major honours in Egypt after winning all 14 of his matches as Pyramids manager in all competitions.

Mohamed Hosny, the respected Egyptian sports journalist and editor-in-chief of sports programmes at ON Sport channel, believes Mokwena has made an immediate impression since taking charge of the club.

“Mokoena has proven his worth with Pyramids in a very short time; he undoubtedly deserves to win the Egyptian League title and will surely be a strong, fierce contender for the CAF Champions League,” Hosny told Soccer Laduma.

Mokwena, formerly in charge of Orlando Pirates and Mamelodi Sundowns, has spent only three months in Egypt. His early success has also earned him considerable popularity among supporters and those covering the game.

Hosny praised the coach’s tactical ability, as well as the way he conducts himself away from the technical aspects of football.

“He possesses two key strengths: first, from a technical perspective, he is a highly advanced coach in terms of both technique and tactics,” Hosny said.

“Second, he excels as a ‘life coach’not only for the players and the coaching staff, but also in his interactions with the sports media. I love this man very much. He is also an honourable ambassador for African football and South African football on Egyptian soil.”

Pyramids’ next significant test will come against Al Ahly on 23 November, following the FIFA international break. Hosny believes the fixture could have a major influence on the title race.

“The Egyptian League season is still long, and a major challenge lies ahead for Pyramids: a match against Al Ahly on November 23rd,” he said.

“It will be an extremely difficult game for both sides, and whoever wins will gain significant momentum in the race for the title, especially considering that Al Ahly lost their most recent encounter against Pyramids 3–0.”

Pyramids currently lead the Egyptian Premier League with 24 points from eight matches, having won every game so far. Al Ahly remain unbeaten but are four points behind, with six victories and two draws from their eight matches.

The meeting between the two clubs will therefore bring together the league’s top two sides, with Pyramids seeking to extend their advantage and Al Ahly aiming to close the gap after their previous 3–0 defeat by Mokwena’s team.