Moroccan FA suspends referees in Raja Casablanca-Ittihad Tanger clash

The Royal Moroccan Football Federation has taken decisive disciplinary action following the controversial Botola Pro encounter between Raja Casablanca and Ittihad Tanger, announcing the suspension of five match officials.

In an official statement released on Tuesday, the National Technical Directorate of Arbitration confirmed that sanctions have been imposed after reviewing incidents from the Round 13 fixture of the Moroccan top flight.

Center referee Nawfal Nashit received the heaviest punishment, handed a five-match suspension. VAR referee Abdelrahim Rakhiz was suspended for four matches, while VAR assistant Bouazza Ikn, first assistant referee Abdelrazak El Moutamni, and second assistant referee Mustapha Abikhar were each banned for three matches.

The Directorate stressed that the measures form part of its ongoing commitment to safeguarding the integrity of the game. It emphasized that strict adherence to the Laws of the Game, as well as transparency and fairness in competition management, remain top priorities.

Although the federation did not disclose specific details of the officiating errors, the swift sanctions suggest serious concerns were identified during the review process.

On the pitch, Raja Casablanca secured a 2-0 victory over Ittihad Tanger. However, the post-match fallout has shifted the spotlight from the result to the refereeing decisions, underlining the federation’s determination to reinforce accountability within Moroccan football.