Raja Casablanca suffered a disappointing start to their CAF Champions League campaign, losing 1-0 to Moroccan rivals ASFAR Rabat at home. The match, which marked the opening round of the 2024–2025 season, saw Raja struggle to convert their dominance into goals.
The hosts enjoyed the majority of possession and created several opportunities, testing ASFAR’s goalkeeper on three occasions in the first half.
However, it was the visitors who proved more clinical, breaking the deadlock in the 41st minute through Ahmed Hammoudan’s well-taken strike.
ASFAR, with only 37% possession, showcased defensive resilience and a sharp counter-attacking approach.
Hammoudan’s goal was their only shot on target during the first half, but it was enough to silence the home crowd and leave Raja trailing at the break.
Despite their best efforts to mount a comeback in the second half, Raja failed to find an equalizer.
The Green Eagles pressed relentlessly, but ASFAR’s disciplined defense held firm, denying the hosts any clear-cut opportunities.
The defeat puts pressure on Raja Casablanca to improve in their upcoming fixtures, as they aim to advance from the group stage.
ASFAR, on the other hand, will take confidence from their efficient display, knowing their approach could yield further success against other opponents in the competition.
The result underscores the importance of efficiency in the Champions League, as Raja’s dominance in possession offered little reward against ASFAR’s well-executed game plan.
Fans of the Green Eagles will be hoping for a swift turnaround in the next round to keep their campaign on track.
