Ittihad Zemmouri Khemisset edged past OCK Olympique de Khouribga 2-1 in a hard-fought Morocco Botola 2 encounter. The home side came from behind to secure a vital three points in their push for promotion.

Match Overview

The visitors started brightly and took the lead in the 18th minute through a well-taken goal by their striker, silencing the home crowd. However, Ittihad Zemmouri Khemisset responded strongly and equalized in the 39th minute when Youssef El Amrani headed home from a corner. The momentum shifted, and the home side went ahead just after the hour mark. A quick counterattack ended with Karim Benjelloun firing into the bottom corner to make it 2-1.

Khouribga pushed for an equalizer in the final 20 minutes, but the Khemisset defense held firm to secure the win.

Key Moments

• 18' – Goal: OCK Olympique de Khouribga takes the lead against the run of play.
• 39' – Goal: Youssef El Amrani equalizes with a powerful header.
• 61' – Goal: Karim Benjelloun scores what proves to be the winner.
• 85' – Save: Khemisset goalkeeper makes a crucial stop to deny Khouribga.

Tactical Story

Ittihad Zemmouri Khemisset played a 4-3-3, focusing on pressing high and winning the ball back quickly. Khouribga set up in a 4-2-3-1, looking to absorb pressure and hit on the break. The home side's intensity eventually wore down the visitors, and their midfield dominance allowed them to control the latter stages of the game. The winning goal came from a classic counterattack, highlighting Khemisset's ability to transition quickly.

Standout Players

Youssef El Amrani was instrumental, scoring the equalizer and driving his team forward. Karim Benjelloun showed great composure for the winning goal. For Khouribga, their goalkeeper made several saves to keep the score close, but their defense couldn't hold out.

Season Impact

This victory lifts Ittihad Zemmouri Khemisset into a stronger position in the Botola 2 promotion race. They remain in contention for a spot in the top tier. For Khouribga, the defeat is a setback in their own promotion hopes, leaving them with work to do. The three points are crucial for Khemisset as they aim to return to the top flight.