Raja boss Paco Jémez targets Moroccan title after winning league debut

Raja Casablanca coach Paco Jémez says his side must build a strong and competitive team if they are to challenge for the Botola Pro title after beginning their campaign with a 1-0 victory over Renaissance Zemamra.

Othmane Chraibi’s 27th-minute goal secured three points for Raja at the Mohammed V Stadium on Saturday, giving Jémez a winning start in his first official match in charge of the Green Eagles this season.

The Spanish coach welcomed the result but acknowledged that Raja’s performance was affected by their inability to keep possession consistently throughout the match.

Jémez highlights possession problems

Speaking at his post-match press conference, Jémez said Raja’s frequent loss of possession made it difficult for his players to control the tempo.

The coach admitted that giving the ball away repeatedly prevented his team from managing the game in the way they wanted after taking the lead.

Despite those difficulties, Raja held on to Chraibi’s first-half strike to claim their opening three points of the campaign.

For Jémez, the victory also marked the beginning of an important chapter in his coaching career as he takes charge of one of Morocco’s most supported clubs.

Raja coach embraces pressure of title challenge

Jémez said he was delighted to be leading Raja and described his current spell at the Casablanca club as the most important stage of his coaching career.

He also acknowledged the expectations surrounding Raja, saying he understands the responsibility placed on him by both the club’s management and its supporters.

The Spanish coach made clear that the immediate focus is on developing a team capable of competing for the biggest domestic prize.

His objective is to work hard to build a competitive and strong squad capable of winning the Botola Pro title, a target shared by everyone connected with the Green Eagles.

Winning start gives Raja early momentum

The victory over Zemamra gives Raja three points from their opening league match, although their first-round fixture against AS FAR was postponed.

Raja will therefore hope to build momentum as they continue their domestic campaign and Jémez works to establish his methods within the squad.