Rhulani Mokwena Confronts Wydad AC's Struggles Following Defeat to COD Meknes

Wydad's Unexpected Setback

Wydad Athletic Club's recent clash against COD Meknes on October 24, 2024, delivered a disappointing result for the team. The match concluded with a 2-0 defeat, leading to a noticeable drop in the club's standing in the Botola Pro League. From what was once a solid second-place position, the team now sits in fifth place. This move came after they managed to secure just 11 points over seven games, with a mixed record of three wins, two draws, and two losses.

Rhulani Mokwena, the team's coach, didn't shy away from facing the challenges head-on. After the match, Mokwena was candid about the team's performance, stressing that Wydad failed to reach the level of play expected. He highlighted that there were numerous mistakes made during the game, particularly evident as they went scoreless while COD Meknes improved as the match progressed, especially in the second half.

In his post-game remarks, Mokwena didn't mince words, stating, "We made many mistakes and were far from our level." His congratulations to Meknes for their strong showing also came with a sense of determination to turn things around for Wydad. Acknowledging the task at hand, he was clear that there is no "magic wand" to instantly rectify the situation, but assurance was given that improvements would gradually manifest.

Challenges and Future Prospects

Amongst these ongoing issues, Cassius Mailula's name continues to emerge. The Bafana Bafana forward, anticipated to be a key player, is still seeking his first goal since joining Wydad. Despite being introduced as a late substitute at the 81st minute mark, his search for the back of the net extended. Mailula's dry spell mirrors the kind of challenges facing the team as a whole.

The pressure is now significantly mounting on Mokwena, whose current focus is on turning the tide for Wydad swiftly. Their next fixture against RS Berkane, the league leaders, scheduled for October 27, 2024, presents both a challenge and an opportunity to reclaim their momentum.

In a league that makes no allowances for inconsistency, Wydad AC's path to recovery lies in acknowledging these setbacks and working diligently towards improvement. While fans may feel the frustration of recent results, Mokwena's steady approach may just be the catalyst for the turnaround needed.