Raja Casablanca
Raja Casablanca clung on for a hard-fought 1-0 victory over CR Khemis Zemamra in the Botola Pro second round, with Omar Chraibi’s first-half strike proving the difference as the Green Eagles weathered a late storm at Stade Mohamed V.
Early Pressure from Raja Casablanca
The hosts came flying out of the traps, pressing high and forcing mistakes from Zemamra’s defence. Mohammed Boulacsout set the tone for a physical encounter, earning a yellow card in the 23rd minute for a late challenge. But just four minutes later, the Moroccan midfielder turned provider, threading a perfect pass for Omar Chraibi to slot home the decisive goal in the 27th minute, sending the Raja faithful into raptures.
CR Khemis Zemamra Fight Back
The visitors responded well to going behind, growing into the game as the first half wore on. They restricted Raja to just a handful of chances after Chraibi’s opener, with Yahya Bakiz also seeing yellow for the hosts in the 35th minute as Zemamra upped the pressure.
Tactical Changes Shape Second Half
Zemamra manager Mohamed Mouzalim made an attacking switch at half-time, introducing Mohamed Rahni to add more firepower up front. The substitution nearly paid immediate dividends as Zemamra began to dominate possession. But despite creating several dangerous openings, they couldn’t find a way past Raja’s resolute backline.
Late Drama at Stade Mohamed V
As the clock ticked down, Raja coach Adil Ramzi made a flurry of substitutions to stem the tide, including replacing goalscorer Chraibi with Ilyas Khafi. Zemamra’s frustrations began to show, with Zakaria Ajoughlal picking up a yellow card in the 76th minute as the visitors pushed desperately for an equaliser. But despite throwing men forward in the closing stages, Raja held firm to seal a precious three points.
The victory sees Raja Casablanca maintain their perfect start to the Botola Pro season, while CR Khemis Zemamra will rue missed chances as they slip to their first defeat. Both sides will look to build on this performance when the league resumes after the international break, with Raja aiming to cement their status as title contenders and Zemamra seeking their first win of the campaign.
Key Moments
27′ ⚽ Raja Casablanca — O. Chraibi (assist: M. Boulacsout)
