Ittihad Tanger vs Maghreb Fès Match Recap - Oct 25, 2025

Late Penalty Rescues Point for Ittihad Tanger Against League Leaders Maghreb Fès

In a match that lived up to its billing as a clash of contrasting fortunes, Ittihad Tanger salvaged a point against Maghreb Fès thanks to a last-gasp penalty converted by Mohamed Saoud. The match, held at Stade Ibn Batouta, ended in a 1-1 draw, a result that leaves Tanger still searching for their first win of the season while maintaining Fès's unbeaten streak.

Both teams entered the pitch with very different narratives. Maghreb Fès, perched atop the Botola Pro standings, boasted an impressive record of three wins and two draws, having yet to taste defeat this season. In contrast, Ittihad Tanger was mired in the relegation zone, sitting 14th with just four points from five matches. Predictions favored Fès to dominate, but it was Tanger that would prove to be resilient.

The match took a pivotal turn in the 27th minute when Maghreb Fès defender Driss El-Jabli received a red card for a foul that left his team reduced to ten men. While this setback pushed Tanger to press for an advantage, they struggled to convert their numerical superiority into tangible pressure on the scoreboard during the first half. The home crowd buzzed with anticipation, yet the first 45 minutes ended without any goals.

After the break, Fès found a breakthrough against the run of play. In the 53rd minute, Soufiane Benjdida struck with a well-deserved goal, taking advantage of a rare defensive lapse from Tanger. His finish reinforced Fès's position as the league leaders and carried the hint of a potential victory.

However, as the match entered its final moments, the tides turned once again. Familiar with the tension of their circumstances, Tanger surged forward. In a dramatic late twist, they were awarded a penalty in the 90th minute after a foul in the box, allowing Mohamed Saoud to step up and equalize from the spot. His composed finish provided a much-needed lifeline for Tanger, sending the home supporters into raptures.

With this draw, Ittihad Tanger remains anchored in 14th place with four points from five matches, their hopes of survival flickering yet alive. Meanwhile, Maghreb Fès retains the top position in the league with 11 points, yet their inability to secure all three points may feel like a missed opportunity.

As both teams look ahead, Tanger will hope that this late equalizer can reignite their season, providing motivation to turn draws into much-needed victories in the weeks to come. For Fès, maintaining their composure and discipline will be key in the pursuit of a championship, as the pressure mounts to remain unbeaten while defending their lead atop the standings. With both sides facing critical junctures in their seasons, the stakes are high as they prepare for the next round of the Botola Pro.