South African coach Rulani Mokwena began a Wydad Casablanca tenure with a 1-0 defeat at the hands of Maghreb Fez as the Moroccan Botola Pro commenced on Friday.
Mokwena assumed leadership of Red Castle following his sudden departure from Mamelodi Sundowns at the onset of the club’s pre-season.
He was given the task to turn the club’s fortunes with Wydad having finished the season in the sixth position last season, collecting just 44 points in 30 league games.
The league was won by Raja Casablanca who never lost a match under the tutelage of former Orlando Pirates coach Josef Zinnbauer and South African assistant coach Fadlu Davids.
In a match held at Maghreb’s backyard, Complexe Sportif de Fes, the home team netted a late goal through Hamza El Janati, who successfully converted a penalty, securing all three points.
The hosts had earlier scored a goal in the 45th minute, however, it was ruled out by VAR.
However, the score may not be the reflection of the game as Mokwena’s side seemingly dominated the match with stats.
Wydad had a lion’s share of possession, enjoying 69% while the home team had 31%. They launched 122 attacks against Maghreb’s 46.
The visitors recorded 10 attempts on goal, with five on target, while Maghreb managed only four attempts, three of which were on target.
ALL BOTOLA PRO RESULTS ON FRIDAY
~ Difaa El Jadidi 1-1 Jeunesse Sportive Soualem
~ Chabab Mohammedia 0-5 FAR Rabat
~ Maghreb Fez 1-0 Wydad Casablanca
~ Union Touarga 2-2 FUS Rabat
