Early Blow for AS FAR in the Clasico Against Raja Due to Hatim Essaouabi’s Injury

In the fifth round of the CAF Champions League group stage, AS FAR's much awaited Clasico match versus Raja Casablanca ended in an early defeat.

Midfielder Hatim Essaouabi sustained a muscular injury just five minutes into the match, forcing him to leave the pitch on a stretcher. He was replaced by Mauritanian player El Hassan Houeibib.

AS FAR coach Hubert Velud's tactical preparations were upset by the early substitution, and he was clearly irritated that his plan had been changed so early in the match.

This Clasico is a crucial encounter for both Moroccan teams as they compete to secure a spot in the quarterfinals of the prestigious African competition.