Yanga’s Miguel Gamondi reminisces about early days of Rulani Mokwena

Yanga SC head coach Miguel Gamondi has shared his fond memories of young Rulani Mokwena during his time in South Africa.

Gamondi, in his first season in Tanzania, will guide his side against Mokwena’s Sundowns in a potentially explosive encounter. The two clash at the Benjamin Mkapa Stadium at 20h00 in the first-leg quarter-final tie of the CAF Champions League.

After winning the league as co-coach with Neil Tovey in 2007, Gamondi took charge of the now-defunct Platinum Stars.

Mokwena, now a highly respected coach on the continent, was starting his coaching career at Dikwena when Gamondi was the senior team coach. The charismatic Downs mentor was about 19 years of age at the time.

Gamondi spoke about Mokwena’s dedication and work ethic, highlighting how impressive it was to see him soar to greater heights.

WHAT MIGUEL GAMONDI SAID ABOUT RULANI MOKWENA’S EARLY DAYS AS A COACH

“I know him from a long time ago. I’m very happy and impressed by his development,” said Gamondi. “When I was coaching Platinum Stars, I was coaching the youth development team. I was very happy and emotional to greet him now when he went out.”

Gamondi’s comments come as Mokwena’s coaching reputation continues to soar. The 37-year-old has achieved success at Sundowns, winning two DStv Premiership titles, the MTN8, Nedbank Cup and the inaugural African Football League.

He has also had stints with Orlando Pirates and Chippa United. “I’m very happy to meet him but as well Sundowns. Don’t forget I was the coach of Sundowns, and I won the league in 2006.” But Gamondi insists his focus on Saturday night will be to get the best result for the Tanzanian giants.

“The challenge is to give all our best for Yanga; it’s not a special game for us. “I repeat I’m very happy when I see a young coach doing well, how he progresses. Probably in one moment I helped him a little bit in his career,” Gamondi added.

Gamondi’s recollections offer a glimpse into the early days of a coach who is now a major figure in South African football. He will be hoping to get one over him in front of a vociferous home crowd at Yanga’s fortress – Benjamin Mkapa.

However, he may have to do without some of his key players. Khalid Aucho, an Ugandan international who plays as a defensive midfielder, and Ivorian duo of Pacome Zouzoua and Kouassi Attohoula Yao will have to pass a late fitness test.

Kibwana Shomari, who deputises Yao at right-back is also battling with a tendon injury. The return leg is set for Friday night at the Loftus Versfeld Stadium in Pretoria.

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