Wydad Athletic Club’s coach Rulani Mokwena has openly recognized the fiercely competitive landscape of the Moroccan top-tier league, the Botola Pro League, after his team secured back-to-back wins for the first time this season.
Mokwena’s team celebrated their second consecutive league victory with a dominant 3-0 win over JS Soualem in their recent match, during which the talented Oussama Zemraoui continued his remarkable goal-scoring form.
In addition, Cassius Mailula played a crucial role by providing two assists. This win elevated Wydad to third place in the league standings, giving them a total of 22 points, just five points shy of RS Berkane, who currently tops the table after 13 matches.
Moreover, the Red Castle has remained unbeaten in their last five outings. After overcoming various challenges to maintain a consistent performance since taking charge, the 37-year-old South African coach emphasized the intense competition present in the Botola Pro, pointing out the challenges of securing consecutive victories.
“The Botola is incredibly tough; the teams are very evenly matched, and there’s no clear favorite in the league. Nevertheless, I take pride in knowing that our club embodies great humility; we recognize our current position, which is vital,” Mokwena stated.
“A crucial part of effective leadership is understanding our current trajectory, which involves being aware of our present situation. For the first time in a year, we are now achieving consecutive victories.
“This is the first time in our club’s history that we have accomplished two wins in a row over the course of a year, and it is imperative for us to surpass this landmark for the first time this season,” he added.
The former Mamelodi Sundowns coach also stressed the significance of patience as he endeavors to rejuvenate the club’s fortunes, while warning that progress will not come easily considering the high expectations surrounding the 22-time Moroccan champions.
“These small victories play a key role in boosting our confidence as we aim to revitalize the club, but we must remain humble and focused. The road ahead is long; this club is destined to be a powerhouse, boasting a rich history, prestige, and dedicated fans with significant expectations,” he cautioned.
“We cannot let ourselves get carried away by a single win; it is crucial to maintain humility and stay grounded as we continue to work together as a team, delivering what our club and fans truly deserve.”
With a strong desire to return to continental competition after a disappointing sixth-place finish last season, Wydad is set to face FAR Rabat on Thursday at Stade Municipal Kenitra. The Casablanca Giants are looking for their first victory against Rabat in four league encounters.