Rulani Mokwena has resigned as head coach of MC Alger after an eight-month stint, following a disappointing loss to CR Belouizdad in the Algerian Cup. During his time at the club, Mokwena achieved a notable 59% winning rate, with 20 wins, 8 draws, and 6 losses across 34 matches.
Despite leading the Ligue 1 standings prior to his departure, the defeat against CR Belouizdad created a negative atmosphere around the team, prompting Mokwena to step down. “After losing that game, especially because it was against Belouizdad, there was a lot of pressure,” commented football analyst Nazim Bessol.
Mokwena’s tenure at MC Alger was statistically more successful than his previous role at Wydad Casablanca, where he recorded a 40% winning rate. His most successful period was at Sundowns, boasting a 67% winning rate. Bessol noted, “This is maybe something that people were prepared for or waiting for because even if MC Alger is leading the league, there’s a lot of problems around the team and with Mokwena himself.”
Interestingly, Mokwena was not fired; he chose to resign, despite management urging him to stay until the end of the season. His departure came as he accepted a coaching position at Al Ittihad in Libya, marking a significant shift in his career.
The loss to CR Belouizdad not only impacted Mokwena’s future but also raised questions about the stability of MC Alger as they navigate the remainder of the season. Observers are keen to see how the team will respond in the wake of this coaching change and what direction they will take moving forward.
Details remain unconfirmed regarding the immediate plans for MC Alger’s coaching staff and how they will address the challenges ahead.