FAR Rabat
Raja Casablanca defied the odds to stun FAR Rabat 2-1 in a pulsating Botola Pro opening round clash that had everything – early drama, breathtaking goals, and a gutsy defensive masterclass. The visitors scored with their first two shots, with Adam Ennaffati the architect of both, to leave the stunned Prince Moulay Abdellah Stadium in disbelief.
Raja Casablanca’s Blistering Start
Just two minutes in, FAR’s worst nightmare unfolded. Ennaffati split the defense with a visionary pass, Ismail Khafi raced clear, and the striker kept his composure to slot past Anas Zniti. The hosts, champions in two of the last three seasons, were shellshocked. Khafi turned villain minutes later, earning the first of Raja’s three yellow cards for a rash challenge.
FAR Rabat’s Frustrations Grow
Youssef Fahli briefly restored hope for FAR Rabat in the 27th minute, firing home after Anas Bach’s clever layoff. But parity lasted just ten minutes. Ennaffati, having created the opener, smashed in the second himself after Khafi’s unselfish square ball. FAR’s frustrations boiled over before halftime as Fallou Formose Mendy saw yellow.
Raja Casablanca Dig Deep
The second half became a siege. FAR Rabat, dominating 71% possession and racking up 19 shots, threw everything at Raja. But time and again, the visitors repelled them. Coach Paco Jémez masterfully shuffled his pack, making five substitutions to frustrate FAR further. Micheal Agbekpornu saw yellow for time-wasting as FAR’s desperation grew.
What This Means
For Raja Casablanca, this smash-and-grab win is a statement. Outplayed for long periods, they showed the clinical edge and defensive resilience to steal three points. For FAR Rabat, it’s a bitter pill after controlling the game. Pedro Soares Gonçalves’ men must quickly regroup to avoid an early setback in their title defense.
Key Moments
2′ ⚽ Raja Casablanca — ismail khafi (assist: Adam Ennaffati)
27′ ⚽ FAR Rabat — youssef fahli al (assist: Anas Bach)
37′ ⚽ Raja Casablanca — Adam Ennaffati (assist: ismail khafi)
