RS Berkane coach: “We deserved better, but this experience must help us grow”

Despite a narrow 1-0 victory in the second leg, RS Berkane exited the CAF Champions League after an intense two-legged tie against AS FAR that ended with a 1-2 aggregate defeat. Heavily defeated 2-0 in the first leg, Moïne Chaâbani’s men were unable to overturn the deficit, but delivered a convincing performance full of commitment and character.

🎞️ Match Highlights:
RS Berkane’s goal was not enough as AS FAR march to the #TotalEnergiesCAFCL final. pic.twitter.com/hGU0vCYAsA

— TotalEnergies CAFCL & CAFCC 🏆 (@CAFCLCC) April 18, 2026

In the post-match press conference, the Tunisian coach didn’t hide his frustration, while still praising the quality of his players’ performance. “Honestly, we deserved to score at least two goals. We had a penalty opportunity and several clear chances. The team played a very complete match, both tactically and in terms of intensity,” he analyzed.

Dominating possession, RS Berkane effectively contained their opponents’ attacks while also pushing forward with ambition. This balance, according to Chaâbani, could have changed the course of the semi-final. “We effectively managed AS FAR’s strengths and created chances for ourselves. But we lacked that final touch, especially in the second half. With a bit more clinical finishing, the result would have been different,” he lamented.

Beyond the elimination, the coach was keen to highlight his team’s remarkable run, especially considering it was their first time participating at this level of competition. “I want to congratulate the players on their performance. Reaching the semi-finals in our first appearance is already a great achievement, especially in a difficult context marked by numerous absences and injuries,” he emphasized.

Chaâbani focuses on positives after RS Berkane come up short

Refusing to hide behind circumstances, Chaâbani emphasized his team’s ability to adapt. “I don’t want to make excuses. The players showed an exemplary attitude. We were able to adapt, reposition certain players, and adjust our system according to the demands of each match,” he explained.

In his speech, the Tunisian coach also sought to project his team into the future, transforming disappointment into a catalyst for progress. “It’s not the end of the world. It’s a valuable experience from which we must learn. It’s a first at this stage of the competition, and we must continue to grow. There’s still a long way to go, and we have an obligation to come back stronger,” he concluded.

EDITOR NOTE: This article is translated from the original article written in French by Omar Chraibi for Pan-Africa Football.