Article by Jeff Katala
Wydad Athletic Club of Casablanca, a beacon of African football, has recently faced a downturn that signals a challenging phase for this esteemed club. Their unexpected 1-3 defeat to JS Soualem on 15 February 2024 in the Botola League was a precursor to a series of unfortunate events, culminating in their premature exit from the CAF Champions League. This departure is not merely a blip in their storied history but a reflection of deeper challenges the club is grappling with.
The club’s journey in this season’s CAF Champions League has been marred by difficulties, both on and off the pitch. Under the guidance of Faouzi Benzarti, a figure synonymous with Wydad’s past glories, the team has struggled to find consistency. Benzarti, who contributed to securing three CAF Champions League titles and numerous league championships for Wydad, witnessed a stark contrast in fortunes this time around. Despite a narrow victory against ASEC of Abidjan, facilitated by Mountassir Lahtimi’s goal, it wasn’t enough to propel them into the quarter-finals, marking their first group stage elimination in nine years.
This setback is emblematic of a broader turbulence affecting the club. Notably, the renovation of their iconic Mohamed V stadium, necessitating home games to be played in Marrakech, has deprived Wydad of the formidable home support that has historically been their stronghold in African competitions. Furthermore, the club has been embroiled in controversies off the field, with chairman Saïd Naciri’s arrest on multiple charges adding to the club’s woes. Such disturbances have inevitably impacted team morale and performance, highlighting the interconnectedness of football success with stable and supportive governance.
Moreover, the team has felt the absence of key players, including Juveth Tsoumou and Arsène Zola, whose departures have left a void hard to fill with the current replacements. This transition phase within the squad has been evident in their inability to dominate against teams they would traditionally outplay, underscoring the need for a strategic rethink in player management and recruitment.
Looking ahead, Wydad’s path to resurgence is fraught with challenges. The club’s illustrious history, adorned with multiple CAF Champions League and league titles, is a testament to its potential and the heights it can achieve. Yet, the current predicament requires a concerted effort from all sectors of the club, from management to players and the passionate fanbase, to navigate through this turbulent period.
The significance of Wydad Casablanca to Moroccan and African football cannot be overstated. Their journey through highs and lows reflects the unpredictable nature of football, where success is cyclical, and challenges are inevitable. As Wydad seeks to rebuild and reclaim their position at the pinnacle of African football, the resilience, dedication, and unity of the club and its supporters will be their most valuable assets. The road ahead may be daunting, but for a club with Wydad’s heritage and spirit, resurgence is not a matter of if, but when.
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