Wydad and Raja forced out of Mohammed V Stadium ahead of Morocco’s Niger clash

Moroccan giants Wydad Casablanca and Raja Casablanca will temporarily move their home matches to Larbi Zaouli Stadium as the Mohammed V Sports Complex undergoes pitch maintenance ahead of Morocco’s Africa Cup of Nations qualifier against Niger.

The stadium in Casablanca will close temporarily to allow the grass to be replenished through an overseeding process, aimed at improving its condition and preparing the playing surface for the winter season.

The work is intended to ensure that the venue is in suitable condition for Morocco’s match against Niger on November 13 in the 2027 AFCON qualifiers.

Wydad and Raja Adjust to Temporary Venue Change

According to the schedule announced by the National Professional Football League (LNFP), Raja will host Hassania Agadir at Larbi Zaouli Stadium on Wednesday, October 28, at 18:00, in the fifth round of the championship.

Wydad will then welcome Moghreb Tetouan at the same venue on Saturday, October 31, at 18:00, in the sixth round.

Raja are also scheduled to face Ittihad Tangier at Larbi Zaouli Stadium on Sunday, November 8, at 20:00.

The temporary relocation means both Casablanca clubs must play their upcoming home fixtures away from their usual ground while the maintenance work is completed.

Why Mohammed V Stadium Needs Pitch Maintenance

The closure is intended to preserve the quality of the stadium’s natural hybrid grass, which combines Bermuda grass and ryegrass.

Bermuda grass is better suited to warmer conditions and can withstand heat and heavy use during the summer. As temperatures fall during winter, ryegrass helps maintain a green and consistent playing surface.

Overseeding introduces new grass seeds to support the existing turf, improve its density and strengthen the pitch for matches. The process requires time for the seeds to germinate and the grass to establish itself before the stadium can return to full use.

Morocco Set for Return to Casablanca Stadium

The Mohammed V Sports Complex is expected to reopen for Morocco’s match against Niger on Friday, November 13, at 20:00, in the 2027 AFCON qualifiers.

The Royal Moroccan Football Federation has confirmed Casablanca as the venue for the fixture, making the pitch maintenance important to preparations for the national team’s return.

Morocco last played at the stadium on March 29, 2022, when the Atlas Lions defeated the Democratic Republic of the Congo 4-1 in the second leg of their qualifying play-off for the 2022 FIFA World Cup.

The planned maintenance is expected to be completed in time for the November fixture, allowing the national team to return to the Casablanca venue after more than four years.