Sports
FAR Rabat Make History, Reach CAF Champions League Final Despite Berkane Loss
FAR Rabat secured a historic place in the CAF Champions League final for the first time in their history, advancing 2-1 on aggregate despite a 1-0 second-leg defeat to RS Berkane on Saturday.
The Rabat-based side’s commanding first-leg advantage proved decisive, as Berkane’s narrow win on the night was not enough to overturn the deficit.
Berkane strike but fall short
Backed by a passionate home crowd, RS Berkane started with urgency after their 2-0 loss in the first leg, pressing forward in search of an early breakthrough. However, FAR Rabat remained compact and disciplined defensively.
The visitors nearly put the tie beyond reach in the 21st minute when Nolan Mbemba found himself through on goal, but his effort sailed over the crossbar.
Berkane’s persistence paid off early in the second half when they were awarded a penalty following a foul on Paul Valère Bassène. After a VAR review confirmed the decision, Yassine Lebhiri stepped up to convert confidently in the 57th minute his first goal in the competition giving the hosts renewed hope.
FAR Rabat hold firm under pressure
Despite conceding, FAR Rabat showed resilience under sustained pressure. Goalkeeper Ahmed Tagnaouti delivered another standout performance, making crucial saves to preserve his side’s aggregate lead.
Berkane dominated possession and created several openings, with Lebhiri at the heart of their attacking efforts. However, FAR Rabat’s defensive organisation and composure ensured they held on, even as the hosts maintained their impressive unbeaten home run in the tournament.
Historic milestone for FAR Rabat
Although they lost on the night, FAR Rabat achieved a landmark moment by reaching their first-ever CAF Champions League final. The club, which last lifted continental silverware in the 1984/85 African Champions Cup, now has a chance to end a decades-long wait for another major title.
They become the third Moroccan side to reach the final, joining Raja Casablanca and Wydad Casablanca, further highlighting Morocco’s growing dominance in African club football.
Final showdown awaits
FAR Rabat will now face Mamelodi Sundowns in the final, after the South African side eliminated Espérance Sportive de Tunis with a 2-0 aggregate victory.
For FAR Rabat, the challenge will be to maintain their defensive solidity while improving their attacking output away from home.
Meanwhile, Berkane bow out at the semi-final stage but can take pride in their strong home performances and attacking displays throughout the campaign.
As FAR Rabat prepare for their maiden CAF Champions League final, they carry momentum, belief, and a golden opportunity to make history on Africa’s biggest club football stage.
