Ahmed Hammoudan and Khalid Ait Ourkhan’s second-half strikes have handed the Royal Army a commanding advantage ahead of next weekend’s return leg in Berkane.
Patience Pays Off in Rabat
The all-Moroccan showdown began cautiously, with both sides respecting each other’s defensive organisation. The first half remained locked in a tactical battle—chances were rare, intensity was high, and neither team could find the breakthrough before the interval.
FAR Rabat changed gear after the restart, gradually asserting control and pushing Berkane deeper into their own half. The pressure mounted relentlessly, and in the 58th minute, it finally broke through.
Hammoudan Breaks the Deadlock
Hammoudan reacted quickest inside the penalty area, capitalising on a loose ball after an initial effort had been parried. His composed finish gave FAR Rabat the lead they deserved—and shifted momentum decisively in their favour. Berkane’s composure visibly cracked as the hosts smelled blood.
Ait Ourkhan Seals the Statement
The second goal came swiftly. Substitute Khalid Ait Ourkhan made an immediate impact in the 79th minute, striking powerfully from the edge of the penalty area after a Berkane defensive error. The goal effectively ended the contest and handed FAR Rabat a two-goal cushion heading into the return leg.
Berkane’s Mountain to Climb
RS Berkane offered little in response, unable to breach FAR Rabat’s organised defence despite late attempts to reduce the deficit. The clean sheet victory leaves them facing an uphill task on home soil next Saturday—they must overturn a two-goal deficit to keep their final hopes alive.
What’s Next
The two sides reconvene on Saturday, April 18, in Berkane for the second leg. FAR Rabat will be confident of finishing the job after a composed and clinical display. The winner will face either Espérance Tunis or Mamelodi Sundowns in the final, keeping Morocco’s hopes burning bright in Africa’s biggest club competition.
Source: CAF Online
