One Goal wasn’t enough: Berkane fall short as AS FAR advance

Africa 18 April 2026 at 17:47

Khaled Hegazy

News Editor

18.04.26 FT CAF Champions League

RSB Berkane

1

:

FAR Rabat

0

AS FAR secured their place in the 2025 /26 CAF Champions League final on Saturday 18 April overcoming RS Berkane 2-1 on aggregate despite a 1-0 defeat in the second leg at the Municipal Stadium in Berkane.

The Moroccan giants did enough over two legs to advance relying on their first leg advantage after a tense return match that saw Berkane push until the final minutes.

Berkane win on the night, but fall short

RS Berkane approached the second leg needing a comeback after losing 2-0 away in first leg. They found a breakthrough in the 57 minute when Yassine Labhiri converted from the penalty spot.

The penalty was awarded after a VAR review in the 53 minute following a foul on Paul Bassene inside the box. Labhiri stepped up and finished calmly to give the hosts hope.

Berkane continued to press for a second goal that would have forced extra time but AS FAR remained compact and disciplined at the back absorbing the pressure and protecting their aggregate lead.

First leg advantage proves decisive

The turning point in the tie ultimately came in first leg where AS FAR’s 2-0 win created the cushion they needed. That advantage allowed them to manage the second leg with greater control even under sustained pressure.

While Berkane dominated large spells at home, they were unable to find second goal that would have changed the outcome.

Final set: Sundowns await

AS FAR will now face Mamelodi Sundowns in the final after the South African side eliminated Esperance de Tunis in the other semi final.

The final will mark a major test for the Moroccan club as they aim to secure continental glory against one of Africa’s most consistent sides in recent years.

Related teams and leagues

RSB Berkane

FAR Rabat

CAF Champions League