Rulani Leads Wydad to the Throne Cup Last 16

Rulani Mokwena’s Wydad Athletic Club has progressed to the Round of 16 in the Moroccan Throne Cup after securing a hard-earned 1-0 victory against FUS Rabat at the Stade Larbi Zaouli Stadium last night.

The match’s sole goal came from Mohamed Moufid, who delivered a powerful strike from the edge of the box into the top corner in the 58th minute, marking the pivotal moment that confirmed their advancement.

South African players Thembinkosi Lorch and Cassius Mailula were both involved in the game, with Lorch starting upfront while Mailula began the match on the bench as a substitute from Mamelodi Sundowns.

The Red Castle will face Moghreb Tetouan in the Round of 16 on Friday, 04 April 2025. Currently sitting 15th in the Botola Pro League, Tetouan secured their place in this stage with a narrow 1-0 win over second-tier team IZ Khemisset, and will be hosting Wydad for the match.

Mokwena’s team remains in contention for silverware this season, as they are competing not only in the Throne Cup but also in the Excellence Cup. Additionally, Wydad holds the third position in the league as they vie for a chance to participate in the CAF Champions League.

Even though they have remained unbeaten in their last nine league matches, with their previous loss dating back to December 2024, the 22-time Moroccan champions have experienced a setback recently, recording four consecutive draws.

Wydad has accumulated 43 points, sitting 17 points behind the already-crowned champions RS Berkane after 25 games. Mokwena’s team is also two points behind AS FAR and is level with FUS Rabat on points, while Renaissance Club Zemamra closely follows with 40 points as the race for a Champions League spot heats up.