The recent outing of COD Meknes against Chabab Mohammedia in Botola Pro D1 demonstrates, in many respects, the immutable attachment of the unconditional Football lovers of the Ismaili capital to their favorite stronghold.
They are all dedicated to a common cause… Demonstrate fanatically unwavering loyalty to the CODM and once again provide their unwavering support to the “Knights of Ismailia” at the “Charafi” Stadium.
Located in the very center of the city of Meknes, the Stadium of Honor was inaugurated in 1962. Since then, it has remained a living witness to the most famous epics of Meknassi football, but not only that!
Hamadi Hamidouch, Abdeljalil Hadda, alias “Camacho”, Mustapha Bidane and Jamal Drideb had walked on his lawn and made his continued reputation.
Unfortunately, the CODM would experience periods of multifaceted instability embodied, in particular, by an unfortunate relegation to D2 and then to the Amateur Championship.
After several long years of struggle, this historic club has finally found its place… Among the elite.
“Charafi”… The resurrection!
As part of the dynamics that Moroccan football is experiencing, particularly in terms of infrastructure development, “Charafi” has had a makeover… Completely!
Officially delivered by the Royal Moroccan Football Federation, it now benefits from the facilities required at the highest level.
“Charafi” thus has a natural grass lawn, modern seats, a giant screen, modern spaces reserved for the press and high-quality lighting, sound and surveillance systems. , as well as more fluid access for the public.
“The Meknes Stadium of Honor is more than ever one of the most beautiful stadiums in Morocco. Its architecture and location are atypical,” said Club President Azzeddine Yaâcoubi.
In a statement to MAP, he praised all the work accomplished to restore “Charafi” to all its symbolism and make it a building that honors the Ismaili capital and its inhabitants.
“The FRMF and CAF Commissions have affirmed that the Meknes Stadium of Honor indeed meets the standards required to host interclub and international matches,” insisted Mr. Yaâcoubi.
Furthermore, the president of the CODM noted that playing in your own stadium is likely to motivate the players to give their all and offer joy to an audience always thirsty for victories.
“During the previous days of Botola, we were forced to play far from our bases. We had acclimatization problems which did not prevent us from achieving good results against big names,” he said.
“Today, we can finally play at home and feel all the warmth of a Stadium which will always be packed,” added Mr. Yaâcoubi.
For his part, the club’s general secretary, Hatim Benabdlkrim, noted that daily meetings took place with the competent authorities to put in place measures capable of preserving this jewel.
He indicated that they communicated with the ultras of the CODM, who are “aware of the importance of preserving this heritage, which reflects the image of a historic city”.
Mr. Benabdlkrim also expressed his thanks to the Meknassi public who spare no effort and make many sacrifices so that the CODM shines brightly.
From 1962 to 2024, the history of the Meknes Stadium of Honor is marked by several twists and turns. The most moving moment undoubtedly dates back to the 1994-1995 season when the “Matador” team led by “Camacho” & Co won the only Moroccan championship.
With MAP
