Renowned South African coach Pitso Mosimane has reacted to Abha Club’s relegation from the Saudi Pro League.
Abha were relegated on Tuesday night following their disappointing 2-1 loss to Al Hazm. The three-time CAF Champions League winner joined Abha in January, taking on the daunting challenge of rescuing the club from the brink of relegation.
Despite leading the team to several crucial victories and briefly lifting them out of the danger zone, their fate was sealed with a final-day loss to Al Hazm.
The former Al Ahly coach’s charges had taken the lead in the second half before letting in two goals.
The two goals took their tally of goals conceded to 87, something that could have contributed to their relegation.
In 34 matches, they won five, drew five and lost 20, only collecting 32 points. Following the valiant but ultimately unsuccessful effort to maintain their top-flight status, Mosimane reflected on his time at the club.
WHAT WAS PITSO MOSIMANE’S REACTION AFTER ABHA CLUB’S RELEGATION
Mosimane reflected on his time at Abha, acknowledging the risk he took in accepting the position. “I knew it was a difficult task, but I had hope when we got out of the danger zone three times,” Mosimane told media in Saudi Arabia. “Everything must be accepted, and my contract with the club expires today.”
Abha got a lifeline when they were awarded a penalty, but it was not to be as they missed it. “It was difficult times for us and we played the match under pressure. I’m sad about the situation we are in, but this is football, we must accept everything, and even though we scored first, we were not able to win, and we got a penalty kick and missed it,” he added.
Mosimane’s departure marks the end of a brief but impactful chapter in his career. While the relegation is undoubtedly a disappointment, his willingness to take on the challenge will be remembered by Abha fans.
As Mosimane moves on to new endeavours, the football world eagerly awaits his next move. He has previously been linked to the Kaizer Chiefs job.
Given his impressive track record and unwavering determination, it’s only a matter of time before he finds a new opportunity to showcase his coaching prowess.
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