Pitso Mosimane's bid to rescue Abha FC from relegation is about to get tougher, particularly following a 5-0 defeat to Al-Shabab recently.
Mosimane's charges showed mental strength to bounce back from a 8-0 defeat by Cristiano Ronaldo's Al-Nassr after victory over Al Fateh that took them out of the relegation zone.
However, the Leaders of the South suffered a new setback after a 5-0 hammering by Al-Shabab.
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Abha have played an extra game than relegation rivals Al Akhdoud and Al-Tai, as either side can bring Mosimane's men back to the relegation zone if they each win their game in hand.
With only six games remaining to keep Abha in the Saudi Pro League, the former Mamelodi Sundowns coach still has to play against Al-Ittihad, who boast big names such as Karim Benzema, N'Golo Kante and Fabinho.
Abha would also still have to face Mosimane's former employers, Al Ahli Saudi, who relieved him of his duties despite the South African legendary coach reaching the mandate of promoting them to the top flight.
Mosimane and his technical team were also owed several months' salaries and after taking the matter to FIFA, the world football governing body eventually ruled in the former Bafana Bafana mentor favour in February this year.
Al Ahli were ordered to pay Mosimane settlement in the region of R22 million.
Al Ahli went on to make marquee signings such as former Chelsea goalkeeper Edouard Mendy, Riyad Mahrez and Roberto Firmino after parting ways with 'Jingles'.
Mosimane signed an initial four-month contract with Abha, as he continues to be linked with other clubs for a project at the end of the season, including Kaizer Chiefs.
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The 59-year-old's agent, Moira Tlhagale, who is also his wife, stated recently that Mosimane's main ambition is to remain with the big boys in Saudi Arabia and whether he keeps Abha in the league will play a big role on his future in the Middle East.
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