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🛒 تسوق الآنSouth African Rulani Mokwena Arrives in Tripoli as New Al-Ittihad Coach
South African Rulani Mokwena Arrives in Tripoli as New Al-Ittihad Coach
South African football coach Rulani Mokwena arrived in Tripoli on Monday evening to officially take charge of Al-Ittihad's football team, one of Libya's most decorated and popular clubs. The 39-year-old tactician replaces Khaled Ben Yahia, whose contract was terminated despite leading the team to the top of Group Two in the first half of the season without a single defeat. Mokwena's appointment marks a new chapter for the club as it pushes for the Libyan Premier League title in the final-six stage.
Main Facts and Key Details
Mokwena joins Al-Ittihad after activating the release clause in his contract with his former club, USM Alger of Algeria. He brings extensive experience from across the African continent, having previously coached South Africa's Mamelodi Sundowns and Morocco's Wydad AC, achieving multiple domestic and continental titles throughout his career. His departure from USM Alger came amid criticism of his tactical choices and his public remarks regarding the club's recruitment policy, which ultimately led to the termination of his contract.
Al-Ittihad currently sits in second place in Group 1 of the final-six stage with four points, two behind rivals Al-Sweihli who lead with six points after a 3-1 win over Al-Olymbi. Al-Ittihad recently defeated neighbors Al-Madina 2-1 in Misrata to keep their title hopes alive. The club's next crucial fixture is against group leaders Al-Sweihli in Tarhouna in the third round of the hexagonal stage.
Reactions and Context
The coaching change has generated significant buzz among Al-Ittihad supporters and the wider Libyan football community. Ben Yahia's departure came as a surprise to many, given his unbeaten run in the first half of the season. However, club management opted for a change in direction, turning to Mokwena's proven track record on the continental stage.
Mokwena is widely regarded as one of Africa's most promising young coaches. During his time at Mamelodi Sundowns, he guided the club to multiple South African Premier Division titles and a strong run in the CAF Champions League. His subsequent stint at Wydad AC, one of Morocco's football powerhouses, further cemented his reputation as a coach capable of handling high-pressure environments and delivering results at the highest level of African football.
Challenges and Outlook
Mokwena faces the immediate challenge of closing the two-point gap on Al-Sweihli in Group 1 while managing the expectations of one of Libya's largest and most passionate fan bases. The direct clash against Al-Sweihli in Tarhouna could prove decisive in determining the group winner. Additionally, he will need to quickly adapt to the Libyan football landscape, which has its own unique dynamics and challenges amid the country's broader political and security situation.
The Libyan Premier League's final-six stage continues to deliver dramatic football, with Al-Nasr also producing a thrilling 3-2 comeback win against Al-Hilal in Group 2. All eyes will now be on Mokwena as he begins his tenure at Al-Ittihad, with fans hoping his continental experience can help deliver the league title back to the historic club.
