🦅 Raja Club Athletic
The Green Eagles of Casablanca
Founded in 1949 in the heart of Derb Sultan, Casablanca, Raja Club Athletic—known affectionately as Raja—is more than just a football team. It’s a symbol of resistance, pride, and passion for millions of Moroccans.
Origins Rooted in Resistance
Raja was born during the final years of colonial rule, created by Moroccan nationalists and unionists who saw football as a tool for unity and identity. From its earliest days, the club was composed entirely of Moroccan players—a bold statement at the time.
A Legacy of Glory
Raja has built a trophy cabinet that rivals any in Africa:
- 13 Botola Pro titles
- 9 Moroccan Throne Cups
- 3 CAF Champions League titles (1989, 1997, 1999)
- 2 CAF Confederation Cups
- 2 CAF Super Cups
- 1 CAF Cup
- Finalist in the 2013 FIFA Club World Cup, facing Bayern Munich
The People’s Club
Nicknamed “Nadi Chaab” (The People’s Club), Raja is known for its massive fanbase and electrifying atmosphere at Stade Mohammed V. The club’s ultras, especially Green Boys and Ultras Eagles, are famous for their choreographed tifos and socially conscious chants.
Rivalries That Define a Nation
- Casablanca Derby: Raja vs. Wydad AC—arguably Africa’s fiercest football rivalry.
- Classico: Raja vs. AS FAR Rabat—another clash steeped in history and pride.
More Than Football
Raja has always stood for more than just sport. It represents Casablanca’s working-class spirit, Moroccan resilience, and a pan-African dream. Its green jersey is worn with pride from the streets of Casablanca to the stands of international stadiums.
Founding Roots (1949–1956)
Raja was founded on March 20, 1949, in the working-class neighborhood of Derb Sultan in Casablanca. It was created by Moroccan nationalists and unionists who saw football as a form of resistance against colonial rule. The club was unique from the start—entirely composed of Moroccan players, a bold political and cultural statement at the time.
Rise to Prominence (1956–1980s)
- In 1956, Raja became one of the founding members of the Moroccan national league after independence.
- The club remained in the top division ever since—a record in Moroccan football.
- Despite early struggles, Raja won its first major trophies in the 1970s: the Throne Cup in 1974 and 1977.
- This era saw the rise of legends like Abdelmajid Dolmy, Houmane Jarir, and Petchou.
Continental Glory (1989–2000)
- Raja won its first CAF Champions League in 1989, becoming a continental powerhouse.
- The 1990s were a golden era: six consecutive Botola titles and two more CAF Champions League trophies (1997, 1999).
- In 2000, Raja became the first Arab and African team to participate in the FIFA Club World Cup.
Challenges & Comebacks (2000s–2010s)
- The 2000s brought instability due to frequent coaching changes and player transfers abroad.
- Still, Raja won the CAF Confederation Cup (2003) and the Arab Champions League (2006).
- In 2013, Raja stunned the world by reaching the FIFA Club World Cup final, defeating teams like Monterrey and Atlético Mineiro before falling to Bayern Munich.
Modern Era & Cultural Impact
- Raja is more than a club—it’s a symbol of Casablanca’s soul and Morocco’s working-class pride.
- Its ultras, especially Green Boys and Ultras Eagles, are known for their politically conscious chants and artistic tifos.
- The club continues to compete at the top level, with a passionate fanbase that spans continents. Lions of Atlas
