Olympique Dcheira secured a historic place in the final of the 2024–2025 Football Excellence Cup after overcoming Raja Casablanca in a tense penalty shootout on Wednesday evening at El Massira Stadium in Safi.
The semi-final clash remained goalless after 90 minutes, forcing the match into penalties where Dcheira held their nerve to claim a 6-5 victory over the Botola giants.
The result marks one of the club’s most significant achievements and sends shockwaves through Moroccan football as Raja, one of the nation’s most decorated teams, exits the competition prematurely.
Raja Casablanca entered the tie as clear favourites after their hard-fought 2-1 quarter-final win against COD Meknès.
Meanwhile, Olympique Dcheira had booked their semi-final spot by edging past FUS Rabat in a shootout, 4-3.
But in Safi, it was the underdogs who rose to the occasion, showcasing resilience and composure in a tightly contested affair.
Throughout the regulation period, both teams had opportunities to break the deadlock, but a combination of cautious play and solid defensive organisation ensured neither side found the breakthrough.
Dcheira’s strategy of absorbing pressure and looking for counterattacking chances frustrated Raja, who were unable to convert their territorial dominance into goals.
The decisive moment came in the penalty shootout. Dcheira converted all six of their attempts, while Raja faltered with one crucial miss that sealed their fate.
The dramatic conclusion was met with jubilation from Dcheira’s players and travelling supporters, as they celebrated reaching their first-ever final in the competition.
Following the result, Olympique Dcheira will now turn their attention to the final, where they will meet the winner of the other semi-final between Union Touarga and Widad Fez, scheduled for later in the evening.
Raja Casablanca’s elimination raises questions about the club’s squad depth and tactical approach in knockout competitions, particularly against lower-tier opposition.
For Dcheira, however, the dream continues as they prepare to fight for the title and cap off what has already been a memorable campaign.
