It was a difficult campaign in Morocco’s Botola Pro for Raja CA in the 2022-23 season but The Green Eagles still can win a trophy after defeating rivals Wydad AC 1-0 on Sunday in the Coupe du Trône semifinal. A first half own goal from Wydad defender Arsène Zola was the difference as Raja earned their first Casablanca Derby victory this season on the fourth meeting. Raja will face either RS Berkane or FUS Rabat in the final.
Recently appointed Raja head coach Josef Zinnbauer remains undefeated since taking over in the middle of June and the result on Sunday will gain him plenty of support. Raja began the match with inspired play and nearly took the lead in the 13th minute when Wydad goalkeeper Youssef El Motie had to make a big save to deny Soufiane Benjdida.
Five minutes later however the green side of Casablanca was celebrating. Raja midfielder Mohamed Azrida played a quick passing combination to find space on the left wing and his dangerous cross was pushed away by El Motie but the ball came back off Zola and into the goal.
Wydad, who failed to defend their Botola Pro and CAF Champions League titles this season, looked sluggish throughout the match and struggled to challenge RCA keeper Anas Zniti. Libyan winger Muaid Ellafi had the best chance in the 86th minute but his finish was poor after Ayoub El Amloud provided a good cross. The full time whistle arrived to much celebration for Raja supporters as the team are still in contention to win a trophy and also guaranteed a season without any trophies for Wydad.
Video of the winning goal is below. Full match highlights are further below.
18′: Mohamed Azrida’s cross leads to an own goal for Wydad defender Arsène Zola
Full Match Highlights