Wydad AC claimed an important 1-0 victory over fierce rivals Raja CA in the latest edition of the famous Casablanca Derby on Saturday evening.
The highly anticipated encounter lived up to expectations as both sides battled intensely in a contest filled with tactical discipline, fierce duels, and an electric atmosphere from the supporters. Wydad, however, proved more clinical on the night and managed to secure all three points in one of Morocco’s biggest football fixtures.
The decisive moment arrived in the 39th minute when Joseph Bakasso finished off a swift counterattack to hand the Red Castle the lead. The goal sparked wild celebrations among the Wydad faithful as their side took control before the halftime break.
Raja Casablanca returned strongly in the second half and piled pressure on their city rivals in search of an equaliser. The Green Eagles launched several attacking moves, but Wydad’s defensive setup stood firm throughout the encounter.
Goalkeeper El Mehdi Benabid emerged as one of the standout performers of the match after producing a series of crucial saves to deny Raja any route back into the game. His commanding display between the posts ensured Wydad preserved their narrow advantage until the final whistle.
The victory carries major significance in the Botola Pro title race. Under head coach Mohammed Benchrifa, Wydad have now collected maximum points from their opening two matches, moving level on points with AS FAR and closing the gap on league leaders Raja Casablanca.
