Rulani Mokwena Credits Pitso Mosimane for Opening Doors for South African Coaches in North Africa

MC Alger head coach Rulani Mokwena has praised Pitso Mosimane for creating opportunities that have allowed South African coaches and players to succeed in North African football. Mokwena highlighted Mosimane’s influence on his own career and the wider recognition South African coaching talent now receives.

Speaking at a South African Football Journalists Association briefing, Mokwena reflected on Mosimane’s legacy at Al Ahly. The legendary coach led the Egyptian giants to multiple titles, including back-to-back CAF Champions League victories. Mokwena said those achievements changed perceptions about South African coaches and their ability to thrive in high-pressure environments.

“I think Coach Pitso had a big influence in that. His success with Al Ahly was probably the door opener. Not only for the success on the pitch in the Champions League, but also for his work ethic, professionalism, and his ability to manage a big, changing room. He showed that South African coaches can handle the pressures of top clubs in the north. Coach Pitso, for sure, deserves a lot of credit for opening the way,” Mokwena said.

Mokwena and Mosimane previously worked together at Mamelodi Sundowns, where they were part of the technical team that won the CAF Champions League in 2016. That victory remains a defining moment in South African club football and shaped Mokwena’s approach to coaching.

“I was fortunate enough to have worked with him for many, many years. I know the man, and I owe a lot of who I am today to him. From that perspective, that experience was one of the biggest influences on my career,” Mokwena added.

Mosimane’s success has not only elevated Sundowns’ stature but has also paved the way for more South African coaches to be trusted with leading roles in North Africa, demonstrating that talent from the south can compete at the highest level on the continent.