The Casablanca derby between Raja and Wydad is one of the most heated football rivalries in Africa. The two clubs have a long history of intense competition, and the matches between them are always highly anticipated by fans.
The rivalry dates back to the 1950s, when Raja and Wydad were the only two football clubs in Casablanca. Over the years, the two teams have faced each other more than 130 times in various competitions, including the Botola Pro, the Moroccan Cup, and the African Champions League.
The atmosphere during the derby is always electric, with both sets of fans filling the stadium with noise and colour. The rivalry is not just limited to the football pitch, as supporters of both teams often clash in the streets before and after the game.
The derby has produced some memorable moments over the years. One of the most famous was in 2005, when Raja beat Wydad 4-0 in the final of the African Champions League. The victory was particularly sweet for Raja fans, as it came at the expense of their bitter rivals.
Despite the intense rivalry, there have also been moments of mutual respect between the two clubs. In 2007, when Wydad won the Moroccan Cup, Raja fans celebrated with them in the streets of Casablanca. The gesture was seen as a sign of sportsmanship and a recognition of the fierce but healthy competition between the two clubs.
The Casablanca derby is not just a football match; it is a cultural phenomenon that reflects the passion and identity of the city’s people. It is a celebration of the sport and the community, and a testament to the power of football to bring people together.
In conclusion, the Raja-Wydad derby is a spectacle that attracts attention from all over the world, not just in Morocco. The intense rivalry between the two clubs is part of what makes football so exciting, and the passion and dedication of the fans is a testament to the sport’s ability to unite people from all walks of life.
