Mokwena Dedicates Pyramids Win To Grieving Star: Emotional Message After Wadi Degla Victory

South African coach Rulani Mokwena has shown that football is about more than results after dedicating Pyramids FC’s latest victory to midfielder Abdelrahman Magdy and his family following the heartbreaking death of the player's mother.

Pyramids secured a 2-1 victory over Wadi Degla in the Egyptian Premier League on Thursday, 29 October 2026, but the result carried a special meaning for the South African tactician and his players.

Following the match, Mokwena used his post-match interview to express condolences to Magdy and his family, revealing that the team had wanted to give the grieving player something to celebrate during an extremely difficult period.

“We extend our deepest condolences to the family of Abdelrahman Magdy following the death of his mother,” was the message from the Pyramids coach.

The gesture highlighted the unity within the Egyptian club, with Mokwena making it clear that the team was standing behind one of its own during a painful personal experience.

Although the emotional tribute attracted attention, the former Mamelodi Sundowns coach also had to reflect on a demanding match against Wadi Degla.

Pyramids eventually collected all three points with a 2-1 victory at the Air Defence Stadium, but Mokwena admitted that the opponents had created tactical problems for his team, particularly during the first half.

According to the coach, Wadi Degla used their numerical advantage in certain areas to trouble Pyramids and create dangerous situations.

Mokwena explained that his technical team worked on correcting those problems during the half-time break. The adjustments helped Pyramids limit their opponents' threat and produce a better performance after the interval.

He praised his players for responding positively to the tactical instructions and remaining committed to the team's objectives.

The victory was another important result for a Pyramids side determined to maintain its strong start to the Egyptian Premier League campaign.

The former Sundowns and Wydad Casablanca coach arrived in Egypt with considerable expectations, having previously demonstrated his ability to compete at the highest level of African club football.

His appointment has so far brought positive results, with Pyramids establishing themselves among the leading teams in the Egyptian league while also progressing into the CAF Champions League group stages.

The coach has also been working with South African assistants Wendell Robinson and Sinethemba Badela as he continues building his technical team.

Mokwena's decision to dedicate the victory to Magdy demonstrates the importance of team spirit and solidarity beyond the football pitch.

Professional football can be demanding, but players and coaches also face personal challenges away from the game. Moments like this remind supporters that football clubs are communities where individuals should be supported during difficult times.

Source:

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