Esam Al-Raqi, the elder statesman of Stade Marocain football team, competing in the second professional division of Moroccan football, has weighed in on the likely winner of this season’s top-tier professional league title, tipping Royal Army amid fierce competition from Raja Casablanca.
Weaker contenders include Fath Union Sport and Wydad Casablanca.
Speaking exclusively to “Hesport,” Al-Raqi stated, “I believe that the overall standard of the Moroccan league has somewhat declined. The pace is not what it used to be.
However, some clubs have managed to maintain stability as much as possible.”
He continued, “For me, impartially, I tip the Royal Army team to clinch the title, especially after their valuable victory over Renaissance Berkane.
The military team has a well-rounded composition; even their reserve players have commendable abilities.”
Al-Raqi added, “Raja Casablanca still has strong chances, but the team is struggling in some positions.
From my observation of the matches, I see ‘the leader’ as the closest to securing the title this season and retaining its championship.”
At 43 years old, Al-Raqi remains one of the oldest players in the professional league this season, consistently delivering impressive performances with high physical fitness.
Commenting on the performance of Royal Army’s captain, Rabii Herrimatt, Al-Raqi said, “I have great respect for Herrimatt, my younger brother.
He has faced significant challenges that were not easy, but he succeeded through his determination, discipline, and talent to overcome everything.”
He concluded, “Herrimatt and I faced each other when he was playing for Chabab Rif Al Hoceima.
He has immense potential, and I hoped he would play for a big club. He has succeeded in that by joining the Royal Army.”
