Rulani Mokwena made an emphatic start to life at Al Ittihad SC, guiding his new side to a commanding 4-0 victory over Abu Salim SC on Sunday afternoon.
The Libyan outfit had been sharpening up in recent weeks during a training camp that saw them fall to Difaâ Hassani El Jadidi before bouncing back with a win over Wydad Casablanca — Mokwena’s former team.
Handed a starting role, Thembinkosi Lorch justified his inclusion after joining the club in the January transfer window, playing a key part in a dominant display.
Ittihad seized control early, with Ahmed Al Bizi netting twice in the first half to put the hosts firmly in command.
The pressure did not relent, as Lorch got on the scoresheet in the 36th minute before Mutassim Garfa added a fourth just before the break.
Lorch capped an impressive outing with a goal and an assist, underlining his growing influence in the team.
Abu Salim managed a response ten minutes into the second half through Feliciano Jone Nenê, but the strike proved little more than a consolation in an otherwise one-sided contest.
Mokwena’s attention now turns to his first Libyan Premier League assignment, with a clash against Shabab Al Ghar scheduled for Wednesday.
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