Pitso Mosimane has received high praise from a former Esteghlal FC star, after the South African registered his first victory as the side's manager.
After suffering three consecutive defeats since being appointed manager, the former Al Ahly boss finally earned his first victory when his side beat Mes Rafsanjan FC by a goal to nil in a Persian Gulf Pro League encounter this past Saturday.
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Speaking after the game to Iranian news site IRNA, former Esteghlal star, now coach, Iman Alami was full of praise for the side's head coach.
"Pitso Mosimane is a hardworking and struggling coach, and the fact that he gives young players who have found the opportunity to play in the Premier League for the first time in an important match shows his courage," the retired midfielder said.
Alami highlighted the impact of Mosimane's trust in youth, particularly in the absence of some key senior players.
"Several young players were given the opportunity to participate and were able to take advantage of this trust and show their technical capabilities," he added.
He also commended the team's defensive performance, resulting in their first clean sheet.
"One of the pleasant events that occurred in the game against Mes Rafsanjan was the closure of Esteghlal's goal... Esteghlal's defensive line and [goalkeeper] Hossein Hosseini performed well."
He went on to emphasise the 60-year-old's influence on young players.
"Mosimane is a hardworking coach, and giving young players opportunities in important matches shows his courage," he continued.
"This will undoubtedly create motivation among young players."
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Esteghlal, now 10th in the league with 11 points, will aim to build on this momentum after the November international break.
By Junaid Benjamin
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