Morocco Cup
The Morocco Cup is Morocco's premier knockout football competition, annually pitting clubs from all tiers—from Botola Pro elites to amateur sides from remote regions—against each other. Launched in 1956, it thrives on upsets, with underdogs toppling giants and fan fervor reaching fever pitch. The tournament embodies the diversity of Moroccan football, blending pros and semi-pros in a quest for glory, cash prizes, and a spot in CAF confederation competitions.
History and foundation
The cup's origins trace to 1955 under French federation oversight, with the inaugural edition in 1956/57 won by Union Tunis. Initially dubbed the Throne Cup, it evolved through name changes: Coupe du Hassan II in 1976 honoring the king, and Mohammed V Cup in 1996. Key highlights include Olympique Khouribga's shock 1-0 final win over Raja in 2009. Wydad Casablanca dominates with 29 titles, followed by Raja CA with 13. Interruptions came during political unrest and the COVID-19 pandemic.
Tournament format
Single-elimination format starts with 64 or 128 teams from 1/64 finals. Top-tier clubs enter at 1/32 or 1/16, favoring early shocks. Matches are one-off on neutral grounds or home/away, resolved by extra time and penalties. The final is traditionally at Rabat's Stade Moulay Abdellah (65,000 capacity). Winners claim 5 million dirhams and CAF Confederation Cup qualification.
Interesting facts
Average goals per match hover at 2.3, spiking above 3 in early rounds due to open play. Top scorers: Abderr Razak Hamdallah (22 goals for Wydad in 2000s), Ahmed Farrah (18 for Raja in 1990s). Stars like Mounir El Hamdaoui (2002 final hero for Wydad), Mustafa M'Tir (8 titles with Raja), and modern talents Ayoub El Kaabi and Soufiane Rahimi have shone brightly, making the cup a talent forge.