CAFCC: Wydad escape Zanzibar with “smash and grab” win

Morocco’s Wydad AC continued a strong start in Group B of the CAF Confederation Cup (CAFCC) with a valuable 1-0 victory over Tanzanian side Azam FC on Friday.

Nordin Amrabat’s deflected effort early in the second half gave the Casablanca giants three points away from home at the Amaan Stadium in Zanzibar. The visitors were forced to defend for long stretches but a moment of quality from former the former Morocco national team attacker made the difference.

It was a disappointing result for Florent Ibenge’s side, who now have defeats in both of their Group B matches after falling to DR Congo’s AS Maniema Union last weekend. After Azam goalkeeper Zuberi Foba did well to save in the early stages, star playmaker Faisal Salum had the best opportunity in the first half but somehow failed to convert from Pascal Msindo’s low cross.

Wydad made the hosts pay for their wastefulness in the 57th minute. Amrabat began an attack down the right wing and followed the play to collect a backheel pass from Thembinkosi Lorch and fire a shot that deflected past Foba into the top corner.

More frustration came for Azam in the final half hour. Powerful striker Jephte Kitambala continued to waste scoring opportunities and the visitors from Casablanca managed to hold on for a clean sheet and secure first place in Group B.

Both clubs will return to domestic action with a long break from continental duties until late January. Azam will travel to face Nairobi United in a must-win match while Wydad will host AS Maniema Union.