MC Alger coach Rulani Mokwena has struck a tone of pride while at the same time admitting the fear of losing as the driving force behind his side’s undefeated run of form on the domestic front.
Under the former Mamelodi Sundowns coach, the MC Alger have not tasted defeat in 11 Ligue 1 and Algerian Cup games. However, their only loss of the season came in the CAF Champions League after falling 2-1 to Al Hilal, but they have managed to avoid defeat in five other continental matches.
Overall, Mokwena has guided his team to 11 wins, five draws and a defeat across all competitions.
The impressive domestic form has left the Algerian giants sitting four points clear at the top of the Ligue 1 table with three games in hand. Their latest exploits saw them reach the Last-16 of the Algerian Cup after edging USM Khenchela 2-1 last weekend. That leaves Mokwena a satisfied man.
MOKWENA ON MC ALGER’S WINNING CULTURE
“We have achieved a couple of objectives because in a Cup game, the most important thing is to qualify for the next round. We try to give minutes to a lot of players,” said Mokwena.
“Our responsibility is to win. When you win and carry everybody with you, it’s very important.
“It’s good to win, I love winning. I don’t know if I love winning more than I’m scared of losing. I’m very proud of the group, and the players are doing some incredible work, and I think the fans should be very proud.
“It’s a team and a group of players that represent the badge with a lot of distinction and a lot of commitment. I’m very proud to be associated with that.”
While MC Alger is enjoying a terrific run of form at home, it is winless in their Champions League group campaign. A defeat away to Al Hilal and a home draw with Sundowns have left them keen to improve their fortunes in Africa.
Algerian domestic football will not pause for the upcoming AFCON finals, and Mokwena is anticipating a demanding fixture schedule.
“We have nine other games that are very difficult in a space of about 30 days, including travelling to Congo [to face FC Saint-Eloi Lupopo],” he said.
“So, the rotation and usage of the squad is very important. We need everybody to make a contribution. In football, as a coach, you take the risk.”
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