Hakim Ziyech makes long-awaited return in Wydad victory

Hakim Ziyech made his long-anticipated return to competitive football as Wydad Casablanca secured a 1-0 victory over AS Maniema Union in the CAF Confederation Cup.

The Moroccan international, who joined the Botola Pro leaders in October, featured for nearly 80 minutes in midfield in his first appearance for the club, more than three months after completing his move.

The match marked a significant milestone for Ziyech, who had been working his way back to full fitness following an extended period without playing.

Wydad’s narrow win over the Congolese side maintained their unbeaten record in the group stage of the CAF Confederation Cup and strengthened their position in the race to qualify for the knockout rounds.

Ziyech, 32, signed for the Casablanca-based club after spending several months as a free agent following his departure from Al-Duhail SC.

His return to Morocco came after a lengthy absence from domestic football, with expectations building around his eventual debut.

Since arriving at Wydad, Ziyech has focused on regaining match sharpness, delaying his first appearance until the end of January.

The coaching staff opted to include him from the start against Maniema Union, deploying him in midfield as Wydad sought to control the tempo of the game.

During the second half, Ziyech came close to marking his return with a goal. Midway through the period, he attempted a long-range effort that forced a save from the Maniema Union goalkeeper, drawing a reaction from the home crowd eager to see an immediate impact from the former Chelsea player.

Ziyech was later substituted as Wydad pushed for a breakthrough. Shortly after his departure from the pitch, the hosts found the decisive goal, securing all three points and continuing their positive run in the competition.

The result leaves Wydad well placed in their group, with the next round of matches scheduled to resume in February.

For Ziyech, the appearance represents a key step in his comeback, as he continues to build fitness and reintegrate into competitive football after months away from the pitch.

While the scoreline was narrow, the match will be remembered for the return of one of Morocco’s most recognisable footballers, whose presence adds experience and quality as Wydad pursue success on the continental stage.