Raja Casablanca vs Kawkab Marrakech Match Recap - Nov 4, 2025

Raja Casablanca Edges Kawkab Marrakech in Tense Showdown, Solidifying Title Ambitions

Raja Casablanca secured a narrow 1-0 victory over Kawkab Marrakech at Stade Mohamed V, a result that underscores their resilience and ambition in the Botola Pro. The match, marked by intensity and tactical battles, saw Raja maintain their unbeaten streak, now standing at three wins and three draws in their last six outings. This victory propels them to fourth place with 12 points, while Kawkab remains in ninth with just 7 points from seven matches.

The decisive moment came in the dying seconds of the match when A. Maamouri converted a penalty kick in the 90+7 minute. This late drama not only sealed the win for Raja but also highlighted their ability to capitalize on critical moments, a trait that could prove vital as the season progresses. The penalty was awarded after a foul inside the box, showcasing Raja's persistent pressure throughout the match.

Raja's recent form has been characterized by a series of draws, including a frustrating goalless stalemate against Wydad AC just days prior. Despite dominating possession and creating chances, they struggled to find the back of the net until Maamouri's late intervention. This match served as a reminder that while Raja has shown defensive solidity, their attacking prowess needs to be more consistent if they are to challenge for the title.

Kawkab Marrakech entered this fixture with renewed confidence following a resounding 3-0 victory against UTS Rabat. However, they were unable to replicate that form against Raja. Their defense, which had shown signs of improvement, faltered under pressure, allowing Raja to dictate the pace of the game. Despite flashes of brilliance from players like H. El Janati, who had been instrumental in Kawkab's recent successes, the team struggled to create clear-cut opportunities against a well-organized Raja backline.

The contrast between Kawkab's recent performances and today's outcome is stark. After two wins in their last five matches, they faced a stern test against one of Morocco's football giants. Coach Youssef Chafik's tactics seemed to falter as Kawkab failed to effectively counter Raja's relentless attacks. The absence of a clinical edge in front of goal proved costly, leaving them with little to show for their efforts.

Raja's midfield, led by Ismail Khafi, controlled the tempo of the game, allowing them to exploit gaps in Kawkab's defense. Khafi's ability to transition from defense to attack was crucial in maintaining pressure on Kawkab throughout the match. The synergy between Raja's midfield and forward line created several opportunities, but it was Maamouri's late penalty that ultimately decided the contest.

Reflecting on my pre-match prediction, I anticipated a more decisive victory for Raja, perhaps 2-1 as they capitalized on Kawkab's defensive vulnerabilities. Instead, it was a gritty performance that showcased their determination to grind out results when necessary. This win not only boosts Raja's confidence but also sends a message to their title rivals that they are not to be underestimated.

As the league progresses, Raja Casablanca will need to build on this momentum. Their ability to secure points even when not at their best is a hallmark of championship-winning teams. For Kawkab Marrakech, this defeat serves as a wake-up call. They must regroup and address their defensive frailties if they hope to climb the table and avoid relegation fears.

In conclusion, today's match was more than just a scoreline; it was a testament to Raja's ambition and Kawkab's struggles. As both teams look ahead, the implications of this result will resonate through the remainder of the season. For Raja, it is about maintaining their unbeaten run and pushing for the top spots; for Kawkab, it is about finding consistency and resilience in the face of adversity.