CAF Champions League: Raja Casablanca Holds Samartex to a 2-2 Draw in Thrilling First Leg Encounter
Ghana Premier League champions, FC Samartex 1996, were held to a thrilling 2-2 draw by Moroccan heavyweights, Raja Casablanca, in the first leg of the final qualifying round of the CAF Champions League at the Accra Sports Stadium on Sunday.
Despite initial complaints from the Moroccan side about the condition of the pitch, Raja Casablanca adapted quickly and showed their class by taking the lead in the 20th minute. Mohammed Zrida rose above the Samartex defense to head home a well-taken corner, silencing the home crowd.
The Timber Giants, however, were undeterred, controlling large portions of the game as they searched for an equalizer. Their perseverance paid off in the 37th minute, when Francis Gyentuah’s audacious bicycle kick slipped through the fingers of Raja goalkeeper Anas Zniti, gifting Samartex their first goal.
Moments before halftime, Samartex capitalized on another mistake from Zniti. The Moroccan keeper failed to handle a powerful shot, and the loose ball fell kindly to Michael Ephson, who made no mistake in putting the Ghanaian side ahead, sending them into the break with a 2-1 lead.
After the break, Raja Casablanca came out with renewed determination, dominating the early exchanges of the second half. Their efforts were rewarded in the 63rd minute when Mohammed Boulacsout slotted home a well-executed team move to bring the game back on level terms.
With the score tied at 2-2, Samartex regained control and pushed for a winner, creating several chances. However, Raja’s goalkeeper Zniti redeemed himself with a series of brilliant saves, denying the Ghanaians a crucial third goal. Samartex’s frustration grew as the Moroccan keeper kept their attack at bay.
Tensions boiled over late in the game when Raja’s opening goalscorer, Mohammed Zrida, was shown a second yellow card for dissent after kicking the ball away following a free-kick decision. Despite being down to ten men, Raja Casablanca held firm to secure the draw.
Samartex will feel disappointed not to have capitalized on their chances, especially with the return leg looming in Casablanca in a week’s time. The tie remains finely poised, with both teams needing a victory in the second leg to book their place in the group stages of the 2024-25 CAF Champions League.
The Timber Giants will need to produce a stellar performance in Morocco if they hope to progress, while Raja Casablanca will be confident of sealing their place on home soil.
The second leg promises to be a thrilling encounter, with both teams eager to make their mark on Africa’s elite football competition.