Rulani Mokwena, the astute coach of Mamelodi Sundowns Football Club, has captivated the footballing world with his innovative tactics and magnetic personality. With a coaching journey spanning over 15 years, Mokwena’s rise to prominence has been nothing short of remarkable.
His coaching odyssey began at Platinum Stars, where he initially served as an academy coach. However, it was under the tutelage of then-head coach Steve Komphela that Mokwena’s talents were truly recognized. The former Bafana Bafana International’s decision to promote him to assistant coach proved to be a pivotal moment in Mokwena’s career, setting him on a path towards coaching excellence.
In the annals of South African football history, few coaches have made as profound an impact in such a short span as the 37-year-old Mokwena as a Head Coach. His innovative approach to coaching has breathed new life into the game, earning him widespread acclaim and admiration.
Mokwena’s tactical acumen and penchant for developing unique playing styles have made him a trailblazer in the coaching fraternity. One memorable instance was his introduction of “Chameleon football” to South Africa, a concept that emphasizes adaptability and versatility on the pitch.
The genesis of “Chameleon football” occurred when Mokwena gave an interview before a game against Petro Athletico, where he explained how a chameleon adapts to its environment. As he famously stated, “A chameleon doesn’t change the fact that it’s a reptile but it adapts to its conditions and we will have to have that personality.”
In the corridors of Mzansi Diski you hear people refering to chameleon football.
In a press conference he once had the media in stiches but also glued to the Tactical board because of his explanation of tactics, such as Catenaccio, and not only enlightened fans but also sparked curiosity and discussion within the football community.
His ability to analyze the game in real-time and implement tactical adjustments has drawn comparisons to Pep Guardiola, with some dubbing him “Pep-Lite.” Social media users have even created scenarios comparing situations between Mokwena and Guardiola, such as the famous “Cooler Box” incident, further solidifying his reputation as a tactical genius.
Beyond his tactical prowess, Mokwena’s charisma and wit have endeared him to fans and pundits alike. His colorful choice of words and humorous anecdotes add a touch of entertainment to post-match interviews and press conferences. Who could forget his quip after a defeat with Orlando Pirates, declaring, “We did not lose the match, we ran out of time.”
Despite his undeniable success, Mokwena has not been immune to criticism and controversy. Some of his peers have taken jabs at him, adding an extra layer of intrigue to the South African football landscape. Yet, for football enthusiasts, this only adds to the drama and excitement of the game.
A testament to his versatility, Mokwena made history as the first coach to be loaned out, a move that showcased his adaptability and resilience. Since assuming the role of head coach at Mamelodi Sundowns, he has shattered records and propelled his team to new heights.
Mokwena’s accolades speak for themselves. He has won Coach of the Season twice, first as a co-coach with Manqoba Mngqithi and last season on his own after winning the league title. Additionally, he has already clinched the African Football League title, his side is still on the chase for other trophies as they have reached the semi-finals of the CAF Champions League, and are in the last 8 of the Nedbank Cup. With just 15 points needed from 11 games to wrap up another Championship, Mokwena’s legacy continues to grow.
In the famous words of Mahatma Ghandi – “In a gentle way, you can shake the world.” For me, In a gentle way, Rulani Mokwena has shaken the world of South African football, leaving an indelible mark with his innovative tactics and unwavering passion for the game.
The statistics speak volumes of Mokwena’s impact at Sundowns. With an impressive record of 29 wins and 10 draws in 39 matches, along with an unbeaten streak, he has amassed an impressive 97 points. As he prepares for his next challenge against Cape Town Spurs, Mokwena is on the brink of yet another milestone: achieving 100 points in under 40 games as a Head Coach of Masandwana.
In a footballing landscape marked by tradition and convention, Rulani Mokwena stands out as a beacon of innovation and inspiration. With his unwavering passion for the game and his relentless pursuit of excellence, he continues to leave an indelible mark on South African football, setting the stage for a new era of coaching brilliance.
