Al Ahly have confirmed that they will be without coach Pitso Mosimane ahead of their opening FIFA Club World Cup fixture on Saturday.
Last year’s bronze medalists will take on Mexican outfit Monterrey in the first round of the competition, but they will have to do so without their 57-year-old coach.
The club confirmed via their official website that Mosimane has contracted COVID-19 and is currently self-isolating in Cairo – but most importantly, is in a stable condition.
This is not the first time Mosimane has been struck down by COVID-19.
Last year, now departed assistant coach Cavin Johnson had to deputize in Mosimane’s absence after the virus kept the coach out of action for four matches.
Despite not physically being with his team, Mosimane has been in the thick of things and has spoken about the importance of doing well at the competition in Qatar.
"It is important for the brand of Al Ahly to be in such international competitions. We have done well in all the competitions that we have been in during the last two years, and I think this is the fifth one.
“Unfortunately, in Qatar, we have got a bronze medal, but at least we got a medal for Africa, as we represent Africa not only Egypt. I hope that this time we do better and get a medal of a different color,” he told the club’s website.
Mosimane says his side has prepared adequately for the Mexican outfit and know what to expect from the match.
"We have worked hard and analyzed Monterrey. We presented their playing style to the players and they know what to expect. We are going to give our best and we hope to do well. We are Al Ahly and we will fight until the end," he said.
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