Raja Casablanca clinch group stage spot with victory over Samartex
Raja Casablanca secured their place in the group stage of the CAF Champions League after a 2-0 win against Ghanaian side FC Samartex on Saturday. The Moroccan giants sealed a 4-2 aggregate victory, having drawn 2-2 in the first leg in Accra, ensuring their progression in the 2024-2025 edition of Africa’s most prestigious club competition.
In the return leg at the Stade Mohammed V, Raja took control early, asserting their dominance over their less-experienced opponents.
Marouane Zila opened the scoring in the 41st minute, putting the home side ahead and giving them a crucial advantage as they sought to secure qualification.
The Ghanaian visitors struggled to break through Raja’s well-organized defense, with their attacking efforts largely contained throughout the match.
As FC Samartex pressed for an equalizer in the second half, Raja’s defense stood firm.
The Moroccan side’s experience at this level of competition was evident as they absorbed pressure while remaining dangerous on the counter-attack.
With just minutes left on the clock, Naoufel Zerhouni scored in the 88th minute, effectively ending Samartex’s hopes of a comeback.
Zerhouni’s late strike not only sealed the victory but also cemented Raja’s place in the group stage.
Despite the defeat, FC Samartex can look back on their debut CAF Champions League campaign with pride.
The Ghanaian club, relatively new to the continental stage, gave a strong account of themselves, especially in the first leg where they held Raja to a draw.
Competing against a team with Raja Casablanca’s pedigree provided valuable experience that Samartex can build upon in future domestic and international tournaments.
Their journey, while short-lived, highlighted the team’s potential, and the lessons learned from facing one of Africa’s most decorated clubs will be invaluable as they continue to grow.
For Raja Casablanca, this victory is another step in their quest for a fourth CAF Champions League title.
The Moroccan outfit, with a rich history in African football, has already claimed three continental crowns and remains one of the strongest contenders in the tournament.
Their solid performance against Samartex underlines their determination to add another trophy to their illustrious collection.
As the group stage approaches, Raja will look to build on their momentum and showcase the form that has made them one of Africa’s football powerhouses.
With a combination of tactical discipline, defensive solidity, and attacking flair, the club has its sights firmly set on a deep run in this year’s competition.
