Former Mamelodi Sundowns and Al Ahly coach Pitso Mosimane has clapped back at a journalist who seemed to criticise his defensive style in their latest win, insisting he doesn’t have players of the quality of Cristiano Ronaldo and Sadio Mane.
Mosimane’s side returned to winning ways and climbed out of the relegations zone after their heavy 8-0 defeat to Al Nassr, with Cristiano Ronaldo scoring a first-half hat-trick.
The 2-1 over seventh-placed Al-Fateh saw Mosimane and his men leave the relegation spots and climb into 15th position with 25 points.
“The team today is distinguished in everything. The players gave me their heart today on the field,” Mosimane said after the game, as per Aawsat.
“We succeeded in proving our character after our success in returning from a harsh loss by eight goals in the last match to a distinguished victory today.”
Despite their win, Mosimane’s side only had 24% of the ball but Mosimane wasn’t too pleased when he was asked about his defensive style after the match.
“I do not have Sadio Mane or Cristiano Ronaldo. I can only work with the elements I have,” he replied.
“I’m trying with all my might to work hard, but I don’t have more players who have special qualities.
“The performance has improved since our arrival, and we hope to continue this work to stay away from the relegation positions. We must help Abha to stay in the professional league, and this is our main goal.”
Mosimane’s side have now collected 11 points in eight games under the South African tactician. They have seven more games to save Abha from relegation.