Olympique de Safi secured a dramatic 1-1 draw with RS Berkane in a rescheduled Matchday 10 clash of the Botola Pro at El Massira Stadium on Wednesday evening.
The first half was a cagey affair, with both sides hesitant to commit forward. Safi, sitting at the bottom of the league table, prioritized defensive organisation, attempting primarily to absorb pressure rather than create chances.
Berkane, usually dominant in possession, encountered a well-drilled defensive unit, leaving the game largely bogged down in midfield. Physicality overshadowed creativity, resulting in several rough challenges and bookings.
Olympique de Safi attack
It was only after the break that the match opened up. Both teams adopted a more enterprising approach, increasing intensity and stretching space across the pitch. Berkane finally broke through in the 68th minute when Youness El Kaabi finished a move expertly set up by Monir Chouiar, capitalizing on his team’s growing dominance.
However, the lead was short-lived. Motivated by pride and desperation, Olympique de Safi mounted a spirited response. A well-coordinated team move saw Moussa Koné level the score in the 76th minute, reigniting hope for the home side and completely changing the dynamic of the match.
The closing stages were open and frantic, with both sides creating opportunities but failing to find a winner. Berkane, likely already focused on upcoming continental fixtures, missed the chance to consolidate their position near the top of the table. Safi, meanwhile, managed to secure a valuable point, though their struggle at the bottom continues
RS Berkane result
In the league standings, Renaissance de Berkane moves to fourth with 27 points, while Olympique de Safi remains at the foot of the table on 7 points. A draw that satisfied neither team, it highlighted both Berkane’s inability to convert dominance into points and Safi’s resilience in the face of adversity.
Wednesday’s encounter demonstrated how defensive organisation and determination can counter technically superior opposition. While Berkane will rue missed opportunities, Safi can take encouragement from their late fightback, proving that even teams struggling at the bottom can respond with character under pressure.
