AS FAR secured a narrow but crucial 1–0 victory over RS Berkane in the first leg of their 2025–26 CAF Champions League semi-final clash on Saturday night in Rabat.
Played at the Prince Moulay Abdellah Stadium, the highly anticipated “Moroccan Derby” lived up to expectations, with both sides delivering a tense and tactical battle on the continental stage.
After a cagey first half that saw limited clear-cut chances, the breakthrough finally arrived late in the game, handing AS FAR a slender but significant advantage heading into the return leg.
Tactical Battle Defines Tight Encounter
AS FAR lined up in a 4-3-3 system, relying on midfield control and structured build-up play, while RS Berkane adopted a 4-2-3-1 formation, with creative responsibility placed on Mounir Chouiar.
The match largely unfolded as a tactical chess game, with both teams cautious not to concede. Defensive discipline and midfield duels dominated proceedings, reflecting the high stakes of a semi-final at Africa’s elite club level.
Context: Historic Semi-Final Showdown
This encounter marks the first time both Moroccan giants have faced each other at the semi-final stage of the CAF Champions League, adding extra weight to an already intense rivalry.
AS FAR entered the tie full of confidence after eliminating defending champions Pyramids FC, while RS Berkane progressed following a dramatic win over Sudanese side Al Hilal.
The victory also allowed AS FAR to settle a recent score, having lost their last domestic meeting against Berkane in 2025.
All to Play for in Second Leg
The tie remains finely balanced ahead of the decisive second leg in Berkane.
- AS FAR need only a draw to advance to the final
- RS Berkane must win by at least two goals to qualify outright
- A 1–0 win for Berkane would send the match to penalties
With a place in the final on the line, where either Mamelodi Sundowns or Espérance de Tunis await, the return leg promises even more drama in this fiercely contested Moroccan showdown.
