Unbeaten Mokwena sets the bar high after perfect Al Ittihad start

Al Ittihad SC head coach Rulani Mokwena has warned that despite a “dream start” in Libya, his side is nowhere near their ceiling.

The former Mamelodi Sundowns tactician has enjoyed a flawless introduction to life in Tripoli, securing three consecutive victories since taking the reins. This perfect streak has not only tightened Al Ittihad’s grip on the league but also secured a coveted spot in the Last Eight of the Libyan Cup.

Following a clinical 2-0 away win against Al Tersana on Wednesday night, Mokwena’s charges sit comfortably at the summit of the Libyan Premier League (Group 2). With 38 points from 14 matches, the club remains unbeaten—a record Mokwena is determined to protect through a shift in culture.

“The team is improving, we are working hard, but we still have a lot of work to do,” the coach told the Libyan media. “We have to keep this mentality; we have to keep this approach to football and to life.”

Rulani Mokwena: Perfect start for Al Ittihad in Libya

One of the hallmarks of the ex-Orlando Pirates coach’s early tenure has been his willingness to rotate the squad, giving several fringe players a run. The coach insists that every player currently wearing the Al Ittihad colours has earned their place through merit rather than reputation.

“Everyone is important. They’re playing for Al Ittihad because they are good and because they deserve to be here,” Mokwena explained. “No one is doing them any favours; it is because they deserve it.”

With South African international Thembinkosi Lorch also finding his feet under his former mentor, the “Rulani Revolution” in North Africa is quickly gaining momentum.