The Casablanca Derby: A Historic Rivalry Between Wydad and Raja

The Casablanca derby between Wydad Athletic Club (WAC) and Raja Club Athletic (RCA) is undoubtedly one of the most exciting and anticipated sporting events in Morocco and even Africa. This match brings together Casablanca’s two biggest clubs, Wydad and Raja, who embody deeply rooted philosophies, histories, and passions in Moroccan culture. Each clash between these two teams captivates not only the residents of Casablanca but also Moroccan fans nationwide and football enthusiasts worldwide. This derby is much more than just a football match; it is a symbolic battle, a major social event, and a celebration of sports passion and city pride.

1. Historical Background

The derby between Wydad and Raja has roots in a long history that dates back to the 1930s and 1940s when Morocco was still under French protection. Wydad Athletic Club, founded in 1937, was seen as a club representing Moroccan elites, particularly merchants and intellectuals. The club emerged from a desire to defend Moroccan interests against the French-dominated sports scene of that era. In contrast, Raja Club Athletic, founded in 1949, developed with a more working-class identity, embodying the middle and working-class Moroccans. This sociological distinction has contributed to the rivalry between the clubs from the very beginning.

Over the decades, the rivalry between the two clubs has intensified, partly due to their many successes. Both Wydad and Raja have achieved numerous national and international triumphs, sharing titles and honors. Together, they dominate the Moroccan Botola Pro league and are often contenders in continental competitions, such as the CAF Champions League, where they compete against Africa’s best teams.

2. The Derby Beyond Sports

For the people of Casablanca, the derby is much more than a mere sporting event. Fans of both clubs, Wydadis and Rajaouis, express their passion and loyalty in striking ways. On match day, Casablanca transforms. In every neighborhood, the colors red (for Wydad) and green (for Raja) are everywhere, and supporters proudly wear their team’s jerseys and wave their flags.

The chants and slogans echoing in the streets reflect the intensity of this rivalry. The ultras, who play a central role in the derby’s atmosphere, create impressive tifos and choreographies in the stands of Stade Mohammed V, creating a unique ambiance that far surpasses a typical sports event. The tifos are often artistic and symbolic, carrying messages to motivate their teams or expressing values and opinions.

Besides tifos, chants, and flares, fans engage in a real « battle of the mind, » where every detail matters in showing their team’s superiority. Ultras spend weeks preparing banners and songs, aiming to surprise and impress the opponent. These preparations become an art form, making the Casablanca derby an event in its own right, where each fan feels part of a shared history.

3. The Role of Ultras Groups

The ultras groups of Wydad and Raja, such as the Winners (Wydad) and the Green Boys or Ultras Eagles (Raja), play a vital role in the organization and atmosphere of the derby. They create elaborate choreographies that reflect the rivalry between the two clubs and celebrate their unique identities. These groups work intensely on visual displays, messages on banners, and chants to be sung at the stadium. The tifos often tell stories, refer to past events, or convey messages of unity and solidarity, not only in sports but also socially.

The ultras see themselves as guardians of derby tradition and, by extension, the history of the club they support. They help turn the stadium into a space for visual spectacle, where the tension and passion are powerfully felt. Ultras groups are also engaged in community actions, aiming to have a positive impact beyond the stadium.

4. Rivalry on the Field

On the field, the Casablanca derby is always a fierce match, often marked by intense physical engagement and palpable tension between the players. Every player feels the pressure of this special match, as a victory in the derby can be as important, if not more, than a championship title. Coaches and players often face criticism from fans and the press, as losing the derby can be hard to swallow and remain in memory for a long time.

The two teams have met hundreds of times in national and international competitions, and each game writes a new page in this historic rivalry. Although each team has experienced periods of dominance over the other, the derby remains unpredictable, and no club can claim complete supremacy. Scores are often close, and matches frequently end in draws or narrow victories, which adds to the suspense and drama of the derby.

5. The Social Impact of the Derby

The Wydad-Raja derby goes beyond sports and has profound social significance for Casablanca. For many residents, this match provides an escape from everyday worries, a chance to experience intense collective emotion, and to connect with their cultural identity. Football in Morocco plays an important social role, and derbies are often seen as unifying events, even as they showcase a rivalry.

The youth in Casablanca’s neighborhoods strongly identify with the two clubs and consider the derby an important part of their lives. It is common to see families divided by this rivalry, with some members supporting Wydad and others loyal to Raja. This social dimension reinforces the importance of this match and makes it a cherished tradition for the city.

6. International Recognition

The Casablanca derby is also famous beyond Moroccan borders, attracting journalists and football fans from around the world. The passion of the supporters, the intensity of the game, and the unique atmosphere make it a globally followed event. Television channels broadcast the match in several countries, and documentaries are produced to showcase the passion that animates Moroccan fans.

Moroccan football, especially through Wydad and Raja, has managed to make a name for itself on the African stage. Both teams are often present in continental competitions, and their success has helped elevate the derby’s reputation. Moroccan fans, whether at home or abroad, follow this match with fervor, and social media is flooded with messages of support and banter in the lead-up to the derby.

7. Economic Impact

Beyond sports and social impact, the Wydad-Raja derby generates significant economic benefits for Casablanca. On match day, businesses in the city, especially cafes and restaurants, see an increase in revenue as many fans gather to watch the game. Merchandise from both clubs, such as jerseys, scarves, and flags, also experiences high demand around the derby.

Stade Mohammed V, which hosts the game, attracts tens of thousands of spectators. The revenue generated from ticket sales and broadcasting rights enables the clubs to boost their resources, which is crucial for funding activities and developing infrastructure. This match is therefore an economic driver for both clubs and for the city of Casablanca.

Conclusion

The derby between Wydad and Raja of Casablanca is far more than a football game. It is a cultural, social, and economic event that mobilizes an entire city and, beyond that, a whole nation. This derby, filled with passion and history, embodies the values and fervor of Casablancans and Moroccans for football. Each encounter between these two clubs leaves a mark on history, rekindles passions, and strengthens fans’ attachment to their teams.

Wydad and Raja are not just football clubs; they are the bearers of tradition, culture, and heritage that are passed down through generations. The Casablanca derby will forever remain a highlight of Moroccan football, a unique rendezvous where the nation’s passion for the sport shines. For fans, this rivalry only strengthens their love for football and for their colors, and the Casablanca derby will continue to be one of the jewels of African football.