Sunday evening, on the lawn of the Benjamin Mkapa Stadium in Zanzibar, the Renaissance Sportive de Berkane (RSB) wrote a new glorious page in Moroccan and African football by lifting the African Confederation Cup (CAF) for the third time. Faced with a Simba SC team determined to overturn the score of the first leg (2-0 for the Moroccans), the Berkanis showed exemplary tactical maturity and mental strength to snatch a draw (1-1) and win the trophy on the whole of the two confrontations.
An intense and controlled duel
From the first minutes, the Tanzanians, supported by a fervent public, showed their intentions by pressing high and seeking to shake up the Berbaknie defense. After an alert pushed back by Lamine Camara (9th), Simba materialized its temporary domination with a goal from Joshua Mutale in the 17th minute, reviving hopes of a turnaround. But RS Berkane, used to big African evenings, did not panic. Mouin Chaâbani’s men quickly regained control of the midfield, creating several clear chances: a header from Labhiri (14th), a half-volley from Lamlioui (38th), and above all an attempt from Tahif repelled at the last minute by the Tanzanian goalkeeper just before half-time.
The expulsion which changed the game
The second period turned to the advantage of the Moroccans after the expulsion of Yusuph Kagoma (50th), guilty of a second yellow card for an aggressive tackle. Outnumbered, Simba tried to resist, and even thought they would double the lead in the 73rd minute, but the goal was disallowed for obvious offside. RS Berkane, as experienced managers, was able to take advantage of the space left by the locals to control the tempo. Judicious entries during the game made it possible to maintain the pressure, and in stoppage time, Soumaila Sidibe offered the equalizing goal (90+3rd), definitively sealing the triumph of the Orange.
A continental dynasty which is consolidating
With this third coronation after those of 2020 and 2022, RS Berkane joins the very closed circle of the most successful clubs in this competition, alongside CS Sfaxien and FAR Rabat. This success confirms not only the rise of Moroccan football on the African scene, but also the excellence of the training and sports management of the club, which was able to bounce back after a complicated season in Botola Pro.
What prospects for the Berkanis?
This victory opens the doors to the African Super Cup, where the RSB will face the future winner of the Champions League (Al Ahly or ES Tunis). A new major challenge, but the Berkanis have already proven that they know how to shine in the continental spotlight. In the meantime, the city of Berkane is preparing to experience hours of jubilation to celebrate its heroes, whose names will remain engraved in the history of African football.
AZ-EDDINE AALLABOUCH
