The high-stakes North African derby between AS FAR and JS Kabylie (JSK) reaches a boiling point on Saturday, January 31, 2026, as both sides meet at the Stade Olympique de Rabat for Matchday 4 of the CAF Champions League Group B.
Locked in a tight battle for survival, both teams currently sit on 2 points after three matches, trailing group leaders Al Ahly and Young Africans.
Following a cagey 0–0 draw in Algeria just last week, this return fixture in Morocco is a “must-win” for both sides to keep their quarter-final ambitions alive.
AS FAR, known as the “Military” side, enters this home clash with a slight advantage in the standings due to a superior goal difference of -1 compared to JSK’s -3.
While their defensive organization has been commendable – holding Al Ahly to a stalemate earlier in the group – scoring has been their primary struggle.
Key attackers like Hamza Khabba and Youssef El Fahli will be under immense pressure to find the back of the net and secure AS FAR’s first win of the campaign.
Historically, JS Kabylie has held the upper hand in this rivalry, remaining undefeated in their last five official meetings with three wins and two draws.
However, the “Canaries” have struggled for consistency in 2026, particularly away from home. After narrowly missing a late winner last week when Ryad Boudebouz struck the post, JSK will look to their experienced playmaker and goalkeeper Gaya Merbah to spearhead a resilient performance in Rabat.
Expect a physical, low-scoring tactical battle as both managers prioritize defensive solidity in a match where any mistake could lead to continental elimination.
