AS FAR and Raja Casablanca are set to clash on Saturday in Meknes in a decisive encounter for Group B of the CAF Champions League.
AS FAR aims to secure early qualification for the quarter-finals, while Raja faces a must-win scenario to remain in contention.
Sitting atop the group with eight points, AS FAR needs only a draw to guarantee progression to the next stage, irrespective of the outcome of their final group game against second-placed Mamelodi Sundowns.
The Moroccan capital club has remained unbeaten throughout the group stage, with two victories and two draws.
Their latest triumph, a commanding win over AS Maniema Union of DR Congo, has placed them in a strong position.
Captain Hrimat and his squad also claimed victory over Raja in the opening match and earned two hard-fought draws against Sundowns and Maniema.
In contrast, Raja Casablanca’s campaign has been fraught with challenges. The Greens sit third in the group with just four points and must defeat AS FAR to keep their hopes of advancing alive.
After a rocky start, including two defeats to AS FAR and Mamelodi Sundowns, as well as a disappointing draw against Maniema Union, Raja revived their campaign with a crucial home win over Sundowns on matchday four.
Despite this momentum, Raja faces a daunting task. Victory in Meknes alone may not suffice; the team will also rely on favorable results in other fixtures to strengthen their chances.
Raja hopes for an unlikely setback for Sundowns, which would move them into second place ahead of their final group game against Maniema Union.
Group B action kicks off earlier on Saturday, with AS Maniema Union hosting Mamelodi Sundowns at 2:00 p.m. AS FAR and Raja Casablanca will then take to the field at 8:00 p.m. in what promises to be a high-stakes encounter.
This pivotal match is a defining moment for both teams—AS FAR seeks to cement their dominance and secure qualification, while Raja fights to keep their Champions League journey alive.
