MC Alger coach Rulani Mokwena remains focused despite first loss

MC Alger, unbeaten in eight domestic matches under Mokwena, faced a stern test in the CAF Champions League Group C clash against Al-Hilal Omdurman at Amahoro Stadium.

The Sudanese side, forced to host matches in Rwanda due to the conflict at home, managed to hand the Algerian champions a 1-0 defeat.

"We expected a tough game. We were solid in the first half, but it's a pity how we conceded," Mokwena reflected in a post-match interview with Naifooty.com.ng.

"I liked the response from my players in the second half. We take our first defeat of the season, but we still have five games to go."

The match underlined the challenges of African football, where tactical discipline and adaptability are tested against unfamiliar opponents and conditions.

Mokwena, who previously enjoyed domestic success with Orlando Pirates and Mamelodi Sundowns, now faces the task of translating his team's Algerian dominance to the continental stage.

Adding to the intrigue, Mokwena will return to South Africa for MC Alger's next fixture - a showdown against his former club, Sundowns. The encounter promises to be emotionally charged and strategically compelling, as Mokwena seeks redemption on familiar turf.

"Every defeat is a lesson. We will learn, adjust, and be ready for what's next. African competitions demand resilience, and we are ready to respond," said Mokwena.

After tasting continental defeat for the first time, Mokwena's focus is clear: regroup, adapt, and continue MC Alger's campaign with determination and tactical intelligence.

Meanwhile, tensions boiled over at the final whistle, with reports of an altercation between Al-Hilal and MC Alger players. An Al-Hilal player allegedly kicked a water bottle towards the MC Alger bench, prompting a heated confrontation. Police and stadium security quickly intervened to restore order, preventing the situation from escalating further.