Both teams did not wait very long to show their offensive intentions. With a slight advantage, the Greens immediately sought to unbalance the opposing lines to create spaces leading straight to the goal. Anas Zniti’s teammates tried to keep the ball to control the game.
On the other hand, the Soldiers, leaders of the group, seemed to be waiting for the right moment to take advantage of a “counter” situation.
In the 20th minute, on a free kick from AS FAR just at the edge of the penalty area, Amine Zouhzouh launched a powerful shot placed just above the crossbar.
As the minutes passed, AS FAR took control of the game, showing itself to be very dangerous on the sides thanks to the technique and speed of Youssef El Fahli and Zouhzouh. The latter, author of a powerful shot from the right, did not dampen the vigilance of the veteran Zniti who neutralized the ball well.
A few minutes later (27th), Tumisang Orebonye almost opened the scoring for the Red, Green and Black, but the finishing touch was not so fine.
In the last minutes of the first half, the situation turned again in favor of the Moroccan champions, but the long-awaited goal came neither from this side nor the other… until the 40th minute.
A well-wound corner from Zouhzouh was poorly negotiated by Youssef Belammari forcing Zniti to score a goal against without their own side.
In the second half, Raja tried to set the record straight from the first minutes, but the Military were well grouped in their areas to keep their nets immaculate.
Officially qualified for the next round thanks to these results, AS FAR tried to counter the game, anticipating Raja’s actions to abort them before midfield.
By putting up with too much, AS FAR will break down 15 minutes from the end of regulation time, conceding a goal from a penalty brilliantly converted by Nawfal Zarhouni.
Galvanized after the equalizing goal, Raja exerted enormous pressure on the AS FAR defense without managing to double the lead.
During the 6th day, the Militaires, leaders of group B with 9 points, will face Mamelodi Sundowns (8 pts) in South Africa. The victory of AS FAR would allow it to finish at the top of the group, especially as it could send Raja (5 pts) to the next round in the event of a victory for the Greens at home against the Congolese AS Maniema.
Any other score will officially eliminate Raja from the competition.
