Pitso Mosimane, the head coach of the South African national team, commented on the friendly match against Egypt, which ended with a 1-0 loss for the Pharaohs.
The South African coach recalled his memories with Al Ahly at Cairo International Stadium before that match, prior to leaving the Red Devils and then returning again wearing his country's jersey.
Mosimane's statements
Mosimane said in statements via "On Sport" channel: "We changed the team in that match, because this is not the same team that played the qualifying matches. We tried to keep the players who participated in both matches and gave other players an opportunity to play."
He added: "We are very happy with the young players, as they did not participate in the World Cup, so we gave them the chance to play in this match. They are playing good football, we have speed, and I know these players well."
Regarding his departure from Al Ahly, he said: "I took a break after my tenure with Al Ahly, and I believe I needed this rest. Look at other coaches doing the same thing. I was writing books about youth football and what they can offer to many clubs and national teams."
He spoke about his experience with Al Ahly, stating: "Thank God, we are happy with the experience we had with Al Ahly, and we should have beaten Egypt in today's match. We faced a big team like Zamalek at this stadium before; I remember that well. It included many distinguished players at the time, such as Emam Ashour, Mostafa Mohamed, and Shikabala, so I have many memories here."
He continued: "The Egyptian national team has a great squad and distinguished players like Emam Ashour and Zizo. I did not have players like them, even Al Ahly did not have these players at that time. Imagine if I had Zizo and Emam Ashour, perhaps I could have achieved more than what I accomplished in my coaching career."
Mosimane concluded his statements by saying: "I am very happy to meet Sayed Abdel Hafeez at Al Ahly club. The Al Ahly fans gave me all their love, and I miss them greatly. Perhaps I will return to Al Ahly again one day."
