VAR Strikes Again: Raja Casablanca Grab a Point as Maghreb Fassi Nab Late Equalizer

VAR's Intervention Shapes the Result

In a high stakes clash at Mohammed V Stadium in Casablanca, Raja Casablanca and Maghreb Fassi share the points after a 1-1 draw in the fourth round of the Moroccan Premier League. The game features a key moment when a goal seems to stand, only for VAR to wash away the celebration due to an earlier foul in the buildup. The decision leaves the crowd buzzing and the refereeing under the spotlight.

As the first half unfolds, Maghreb Fassi press with ambition while Raja chase countering moves. The visitors strike a first time test for the Raja defense, while the home goalkeeper Mahdi Harrar shows his readiness with a series of sharp saves that keep the score level. The atmosphere is intense, even if the stands are quieter than usual thanks to a portion of the ultras boycotting the trip in solidarity with local protests.

Late Drama and Standings Shake-Up

Raja gradually tilts the momentum after the break, crafting chances through a concerted team push. Najari, a former Raja man turned Maghreb Fassi opponent, recovers a loose ball and fires home in the 84th minute to put the Eagles ahead in front of their own fans. The goal thickens the plot, as Raja briefly holds the lead and the dream of three points grows.

But the drama does not end there. In the 97th minute, Maghreb Fassi are awarded a penalty after a foul in the box. Sufian Benguida steps up and calmly converts, denying Raja the win and earning a precious away point for the visitors. The late strike shifts the narrative back toward balance and keeps the title fight alive for now.

Looking Ahead to the Casablanca Derby

With the final whistle, both teams stay on 8 points, trailing the early league pace-setter Wydad who sit on 10. The result adds weight to the upcoming Casablanca derby as a potential turning point in the early season narrative. It is a fixture that will draw the eyes of fans and pundits alike, especially with the title race already showing signs of a crowded table.

Punchline time: If VAR ever runs for office, its campaign slogan will be clear: You should be able to replay the punchline before you boo it off the stage. And if that does not satisfy, the monitor will beep until you laugh anyway.

Punchline time 2: Soccer fans know the ball is round, the pitch is green, and VAR is never far from the action. It is the only referee who requires a second opinion and still gets the last word, just in case you forgot where the coffee stand is.