Pitso Mosimane not getting carried away with title in sight

Celebrated South African coach Pitso ‘Jingles’ Mosimane might be inching ever closer to his first piece of silverware with Saudi Arabian side Al Ahli Saudi, but he is not getting carried away.

Mosimane has made a name for himself as a serial winner, and he seems to be doing his reputation no harm at all in the Middle East, where he is on a mission to awaken a sleeping giant.

Ahli, affectionately known as Al Malaki [The Royal], are one of the biggest clubs in Saudi Arabia, with a massive following and a long history that includes numerous domestic and international trophies.

MISSION TO RESTORE FORMER GLORY

However, they have been enduring tough times in recent years, with their decline culminating in their shocking relegation from the top flight in the 2021/22 campaign.

But Mosimane is now on a mission to return the club to its former glory as they are on the cusp of regaining promotion to the big time as the winners of the Saudi First Division League.

Mosimane’s side are back at the summit of the log table following a 2-0 victory over strugglers Najran at the Prince Hathloul Bin Abdul Aziz Sports City Stadium on Tuesday, thanks to goals from Abdullah Al Mogren and Morad Khodari.

The former Al Ahly mentor, though, is not getting ahead of himself despite his side’s impressive run and insists they will keep taking it one match at a time until they reach the promised land.

PITSO MOSIMANE’S FEET FIRMLY ON THE GROUND

“A very arduous journey, and we take it step by step,” said Mosimane on social media after the match.

“Also, we have no ego but humility to accept our shortfalls.

“We know that we can do better. We pray to God to stay with us and deliver us to the promised land.

“Five games in a row with one goal conceded. Alhamdulilla.”

The incredible run by Mosimane’s side has seen them open a 13-point gap to the non-promotion places while overtaking Al Hazem as log leaders with a two-point lead.

Ahli will hope to extend their five-match winning run when they host fourth-placed Al-Riyadh at Prince Abdullah Al Faisal Stadium on Sunday.

By Sthembiso Nkabinde 

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