Rhulani Mokwena Wins Hearts in Algeria as MC Alger Dominate Ligue 1

South African coach Rulani Mokwena is making waves in North Africa, with Algerian media showering praise on his tactical intelligence and leadership qualities.

Since taking charge of Mouloudia Club d’Alger (MCA) in July, Mokwena has transformed the reigning champions into a formidable force, instilling a winning mentality and a sense of meritocracy that resonates strongly in the dressing room.

A Tactical Mastermind

Local press has highlighted Mokwena’s ability to adapt and innovate. His preferred 4-3-3 system, blending disciplined defensive structures with fluid attacking transitions, has been central to MCA’s unbeaten run.

Analysts note that Mokwena’s approach emphasizes high-intensity pressing and positional flexibility, a philosophy that has revitalized the team’s identity.

One Algerian outlet described his impact as “a breath of fresh air for a club in search of stability and results,” adding that Mokwena’s methods have “revolutionized performance levels since his arrival”.

The Algerian press has been very complimentary of Rhulani Mokwena

They’re most impressed with his tactical nous, as well as his ability to instil a winning mentality and a sense of meritocracy in the dressing room

MCA are top of the table with three matches in hand pic.twitter.com/R4oqmbUAD8

— Maher Mezahi (@MezahiMaher) November 12, 2025

Meritocracy and Mentality

Beyond tactics, Mokwena has earned admiration for fostering a culture where performance dictates selection.

“I work with the players every day, I see their progress, and it’s my duty to support them,” Mokwena told reporters after a recent win over Paradou AC, responding firmly to criticism that he was “overpraising” his squad.

“The difference in our play compared to last season is clear”.

Domestic Dominance

The results speak volumes. MCA currently sit top of the Algerian Ligue 1 table with 22 points from eight matches, two points ahead of MC Oran, and crucially, with three games in hand. Mokwena’s men have recorded seven wins and one draw, scoring 10 goals and conceding just three, a testament to their balance between attack and defense.

Continental Ambitions

MCA’s resurgence isn’t limited to domestic football. The club has qualified for the CAF Champions League group stage, where they will compete in Group C alongside Mamelodi Sundowns (South Africa), Al Hilal (Sudan), and St Éloi Lupopo (DR Congo).

The group stage kicks off on 21–23 November 2025, with two matchdays scheduled before the Africa Cup of Nations break, and will resume in late January 2026.

This draw sets up a fascinating reunion for Mokwena, who will face his former club Sundowns in a high-stakes continental clash.

With MCA’s current form and Mokwena’s tactical acumen, Algerian fans are optimistic about a deep run in Africa’s premier club competition.