Rulani Mokwena: “I will not abandon Wydad”

After a Casablanca Derby on Saturday passed without a winner in a 1-1 Botola Pro result between Raja CA and Wydad AC, Wydad coach Rulani Mokwena appeared at a press conference with a tone that was both lucid and determined.

The South African coach first lamented his players' lack of concentration after the opening goal:

"We were lacking in focus immediately after the goal. We relinquished control of the match to a quality opponent. Raja equalized following a move initiated by Lorch, whose shot hit the post before being retaken. The draw accurately reflects the events of the first half."

Asked about the criticism that is beginning to emerge surrounding his results and his future, Mokwena responded firmly:

"We were playing a team that won the league last season. If some consider that result a failure, then my definition of failure in football is probably different."

He continued his personal commitment to the club:

"I'm here, and I'll finish the season with Wydad. Sometimes you have to take risks to win matches. And if that's not enough to satisfy everyone, I accept it. But I can assure you of one thing: I won't be leaving Wydad through the back door. I will leave with the respect of the club and the Moroccan fans."

Wydad, who had taken the lead on the scoreboard thanks to a penalty converted by Mohamed Rayhi, conceded an equalizer later in the first half from Raja forward El Houssine Rahimi.

This draw brings the Reds' points total to 44 points, keeping them in third place in the standings, one point behind AS FAR (45 points) who still have a game in hand against Union Touarga on Sunday.

EDITOR NOTE: This article is translated from the original written in French by Omar Chraibi for Pan-Africa Football.