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All eyes in Moroccan football turn to Casablanca this Wednesday evening, as the iconic Mohammed V Stadium hosts the highly anticipated Casablanca Derby between eternal rivals Wydad AC and Raja Club Athletic. The thrilling encounter kicks off at 7:00 PM GMT, promising passion, intensity, and unforgettable moments in one of Africa’s most famous football rivalries.
Match Overview
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Fixture: Wydad AC vs Raja CA
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Competition: Moroccan Botola Pro (rescheduled Round 5)
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Date: Wednesday
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Kick-off Time: 7:00 PM GMT
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Venue: Mohammed V Stadium, Casablanca
The Stakes Are High
This clash is not just a football match — it’s a battle for pride, history, and dominance in Casablanca. Both Wydad and Raja enter the match with strong motivation, knowing that victory could play a crucial role in shaping their seasons.
Wydad AC, fresh off an impressive 5–0 triumph over Ghana’s Asante Kotoko in the CAF Confederation Cup, come into the derby full of confidence and momentum. The Red Devils will look to build on that performance and climb higher in the Botola standings after a somewhat inconsistent start to their league campaign.
On the other hand, Raja CA continue to display solid form in domestic competition. The Green Eagles have been one of the most consistent sides this season and are determined to maintain their position among the league’s front-runners. A win tonight would strengthen their title ambitions and send a strong message to their fierce rivals.
Team Form and Strategy
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Wydad AC: Buoyed by their recent continental success, Wydad are expected to play with attacking intent. Their forward line has found rhythm, and the team’s midfield, led by captain Yahia Attiyat Allah, will aim to control the pace and supply their strikers with quality service.
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Raja CA: Known for their technical finesse and collective play, Raja will rely on quick transitions and smart movement off the ball. Manager Josef Zinnbauer is likely to adopt a balanced approach, looking to exploit spaces behind Wydad’s defense.
The tactical duel between the two managers will be fascinating, as both teams boast some of the finest talents in Moroccan football — including Mohsine Moutouali, Youssef El Motie, and Jalal Daoudi.
Atmosphere and Significance
The Casablanca Derby is one of Africa’s fiercest and most colorful rivalries. The Mohammed V Stadium will be packed with passionate supporters from both sides, creating an electric atmosphere with chants, banners, and tifo displays that showcase the city’s unmatched football culture.
Beyond the local bragging rights, this match holds great importance in the Botola Pro title race. A win could shift momentum for either team as the season progresses, while a loss would leave plenty of questions to answer.
Prediction
Both teams have shown strong form, but Wydad’s recent attacking display gives them a slight edge heading into the derby. Raja’s defensive solidity, however, could make it a tightly contested affair.
Predicted Score: Wydad 2 – 1 Raja