Al Ahly has stated that coach Pitso Mosimane would miss the Egyptian giants’ first FIFA Club World Cup match on Saturday, February 5th.
The bronze medalists from last year’s championship will face Monterrey of Mexico in the second round, but they will be without their 57-year-old coach.
Mosimane has contracted Covid-19, according to the club’s official website, and is currently self-isolating in Cairo — most importantly, he is in good health.
This isn’t the first time the coronavirus has afflicted Mosimane.
Last year, now departed assistant coach Cavin Johnson had to fill in for Mosimane’s absence after the virus kept ‘Jingles’ out of action for four matches.
Despite not physically being with his team, Mosimane has spoken about the importance of doing well at the competition in Qatar.
“It is important for the brand of Al Ahly to be in such international competitions. We have done well in all the competitions that we have been in during the last two years, and I think this is the fifth one,” said Pitso Mosimane.
“Unfortunately, in Qatar, we have got a bronze medal, but at least we got a medal for Africa, as we represent Africa not only Egypt. I hope that this time we do better and get a medal of a different color,” he told the club’s website.
Mosimane says his side has prepared adequately for the Mexican outfit and know what to expect from the match.
“We have worked hard and analysed Monterrey. We presented their playing style to the players and they know what to expect. We are going to give our best and we hope to do well. We are Al Ahly and we will fight until the end,” he said.
Kick-off in the match between Al Ahly and Monterrey is at 18:30 SA time
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