Kawkab Marrakech move top after 2-1 win over Wydad Casablanca

Kawkab Marrakech moved to the top of the Moroccan professional league with a 2-1 victory over Wydad Casablanca on Saturday, denying their visitors the chance to claim first place after the seventh round.

Wydad’s task became more difficult in the seventh minute when Haitham Hamani was sent off.

Kawkab Marrakech took advantage of their numerical advantage and opened the scoring through Osama Mahrous in the 18th minute. The hosts doubled their lead just before half-time, with Saleh Al-Salami making it 2-0 in the 44th minute.

Wydad responded more strongly after the break and reduced the deficit in the 59th minute through Osama Al-Zamrawi. They were unable to find an equaliser, however, as Kawkab Marrakech held on for a 2-1 win.

The result takes Kawkab Marrakech to 16 points and puts them at the top of the table. Wydad remain second on 14 points.

Elsewhere in the same round, Morocco Fes beat visiting Fath Rabat 1-0.

Hamza Afsal scored the only goal of the match in the 15th minute, securing a result that lifts Morocco Fes to 11 points in fourth place.

Fath Rabat remain on eight points and are 12th in the standings.