Rulani Mokwena, the South African coach of Wydad Athletic Club, has recently shared his thoughts on the team’s 2-0 victory over Difaa El Jadidi in the Botola Pro League, which has brought a sense of relief and pride to both him and the club’s supporters. The win, achieved on Sunday, January 19, 2025, not only secured valuable points for Wydad but also marked a significant milestone for Mokwena in his relatively short time at the Moroccan club.
Mokwena, who joined Wydad Athletic Club in the summer, initially faced a challenging start to the season. Many of the club’s passionate fans voiced their frustrations, some even questioning the coach’s decision to leave Mamelodi Sundowns, where he had enjoyed considerable success in South Africa, to take on the challenge of coaching in Morocco. The transition wasn’t seamless, and the early results didn’t always go in Wydad’s favor, leading to increasing pressure on Mokwena. Criticism from fans and media was loud, and some supporters expressed disappointment, wondering whether it had been the right move to leave the Premier Soccer League for a new and more competitive environment.
However, the tide has clearly turned in recent weeks. Mokwena has been able to steady the ship, and his tactics are now beginning to bear fruit. The win against Difaa El Jadidi, where the team triumphed 2-0 thanks to a crucial goal by Cassius Mailula, was the latest in a remarkable run of three consecutive victories. This achievement not only served to boost the team’s standing in the league but also marked a significant personal achievement for Mokwena—Wydad had not won three matches in a row since the 2022-23 season, and it was the first time the club had managed this feat in nearly two full years.
Mokwena took to his official Instagram account to reflect on the victory and share his thoughts on the team’s performance. In his post, the former Mamelodi Sundowns coach expressed his deep appreciation for the players’ efforts, acknowledging the hard work and commitment that had gone into achieving the record. He emphasized how proud he was of the squad and highlighted that this three-game winning streak was not only a testament to their abilities but also a reminder of the potential the team holds when they play as a cohesive unit. Mokwena seemed genuinely pleased with how his team had responded to the pressure and the early-season struggles, showcasing a newfound resilience and determination.
For Mokwena, this moment is undoubtedly a sense of vindication. Despite the early challenges and the doubters, he has managed to transform Wydad’s fortunes and make a significant impact on the team’s trajectory. This victory and the accompanying three-game streak are proof that the coach’s methods and ideas are beginning to take hold and that the players are fully buying into his vision for the club. It’s a sign that Mokwena is gradually stamping his authority on the team, and that the bond between coach and players is growing stronger by the match.
The reaction from both Wydad fans and those back in South Africa has been overwhelmingly positive. The supporters of the Red Castle, as Wydad Athletic Club is affectionately known, are beginning to rally behind Mokwena and are now beginning to see the fruits of his leadership. The sense of optimism that has emerged after these consecutive victories is palpable, with fans now hopeful for a strong second half of the season.
For Mokwena, this run of form is more than just a collection of wins—it’s a reflection of his growth as a coach in a new and challenging environment. Having faced significant pressure early in his tenure, the 2025 calendar year could prove to be a defining one for him. The road ahead is long, and there are certainly challenges to come, but with this newfound momentum, Mokwena’s Wydad is looking like a team ready to compete at the highest level in Moroccan football.
In conclusion, Mokwena’s reaction to Wydad’s 2-0 victory over Difaa El Jadidi and their three-game winning streak serves as a testament to his resilience and the team’s growing unity under his leadership. What started as a difficult transition has now turned into a period of success, and both Mokwena and Wydad Athletic Club will be hoping this momentum continues as they push forward in the Botola Pro League.
