Langa Mabena
South Africa coach Rulani Mokwena’s tenure at Wydad Casablanca got off to a disappointing start with a 1-0 away defeat to Maghreb Fez in the opening match of the Moroccan Botola Pro.
In fact, the home side could have won the match by 2-0, however, their first goal was ruled out in the 45th minute.
However, Hamza El Janati rattled the back of the net from the spot in the 94th to secure the maximum points for his side.
MAS Fes, who finished the season in 11th position, currently occupy 2nd position now in the league standings after a win with Wydad sitting in 15th place.
Despite the defeat, Mokwena’s side dominated the majority of the match. However, they were unable to capitalise on the numerous chances they created. Mokwena left Mamelodi Sundowns of South Africa at the end of the last season.
Wydad enjoyed 69% ball possession while Maghreb, in their backyard, only had 31%. The Casablanca-based side was better than the hosts offensively, launching 122 attacks to their 46.
In terms of goal attempts, Wydad had a clear advantage with 10 attempts to Maghreb’s four. Five of the visitors’ attempts were on target, while only three of Maghreb’s were.
Meanwhile, former Rulani Mokwena striker Cassius Mailula made his debut for Red Castle, entering the fray in the 60th minute with Oussama Zemraoui taken off.
Mailula recently signed for the North African side on loan from the Major League Side outfit Toronto FC. Wydad holds an option to buy him outright when his loan spell ends.
Mokwena will be hoping to help the 23-year-old forward rediscover previous form he had prior to making a switch to the Canadian club. Abdelmounaim Boutouil is another player from Sundowns he has lured as he aims to build a formidable team to succeed at Wydad. (FARPost)
derick.khumalo