CAF Confederation Cup: Wydad AC reveal starting XI for clash with Asante Kotoko in Accra

Wydad Athletic Club have confirmed their starting lineup ahead of Sunday’s CAF Confederation Cup second-round encounter against Asante Kotoko at the Accra Sports Stadium, with kick-off set for 3:00 PM GMT.

Having been exempted from the competition’s opening round, the Moroccan giants begin their continental campaign with a tricky away fixture in Ghana.

Coach Adil Ramzi has opted for a balanced 4-3-3 formation, blending experience with attacking flair as Wydad aim to secure an early advantage in the first leg.

In goal, Benabid takes his place as the last line of defence behind a back four composed of Ferreira, Abou El Fath, Boucheta, and Moufid.

The defensive unit will look to stay compact against Kotoko’s fast transitions and physical forward line.

The midfield trio of Stephen Aziz Ki, Bakasu, and Lamirat will shoulder the creative and defensive responsibilities in the heart of the park.

Aziz Ki, known for his technical control and vision, will be key in linking play between defence and attack, while Bakasu and Lamirat provide stability and pressing intensity.

In attack, Wydad have chosen a dynamic frontline led by captain Nordin Amrabat, supported by Hannouri and Themba Lorch.

The trio’s movement and experience are expected to trouble Kotoko’s backline, especially with Amrabat’s ability to dictate the tempo and Lorch’s sharp eye for goal.

Wydad’s opponents, Asante Kotoko, reached this stage after defeating Kwara United of Nigeria in the previous round.

The Ghanaian side will be eager to capitalize on home advantage and continue their positive momentum, while Wydad — one of Africa’s most successful clubs — will be equally determined to assert their continental pedigree from the outset.

This encounter marks the beginning of what both teams hope will be a long and fruitful journey in this season’s competition.

Wydad’s experience in African tournaments gives them an edge on paper, but Kotoko’s history, home support, and resilience make them formidable hosts.

The return leg in Casablanca will ultimately decide who advances to the group stage, but Sunday’s showdown in Accra promises to set the tone.

Both clubs, steeped in tradition and success, know that fine margins often decide ties at this level — and with attacking talent on both sides, spectators can expect an intense and tactical battle.

Wydad AC Starting XI: Benabid (GK), Ferreira, Abou El Fath, Boucheta, Moufid, Bakasu, Lamirat, Stephen Aziz Ki, Amrabat (captain), Hannouri, Lorch.

The chosen eleven 🔝🔴#DimaWydad pic.twitter.com/Nhwj7X7Mg9

— Wydad Athletic Club (@WACofficiel) October 19, 2025