El Kanemi Warriors and Raja Club Athletic played out an entertaining 2-2 draw in the CAF Confederation Cup on October 18, 2026, with the Nigerian side twice taking the lead before Raja fought back to earn a share of the spoils.

El Kanemi Warriors struck first through Sani Ibrahim and restored their advantage through Mohammed Bello after Raja had equalised. The Moroccan giants, however, showed their continental experience by responding again, with Karim El Ouali finding the net to secure a 2-2 draw.

Match overview

The CAF Confederation Cup clash brought together El Kanemi Warriors’ home energy and Raja Club Athletic’s pedigree. The hosts started brightly, pressing Raja’s build-up and looking to turn possession into quick attacks. Their opener came from exactly that approach, with Ibrahim finishing after a spell of sustained pressure.

Raja gradually settled and equalised through Yassine Belhaj, whose composed finish underlined the quality the Moroccan side possess in the final third. El Kanemi refused to retreat, though, and Bello’s goal just before the break gave them a deserved half-time lead.

Key moments

• El Kanemi opener: Sani Ibrahim put the hosts ahead with a sharp finish.
• Raja equaliser: Yassine Belhaj levelled after a patient attacking move.
• Bello restores lead: Mohammed Bello struck to put El Kanemi 2-1 up.
• Late drama: Karim El Ouali rescued a draw for Raja with a well-taken goal.

The second half was a test of nerve and fitness. Raja controlled more of the ball, but El Kanemi defended with discipline and threatened on the counter. The equaliser arrived late enough to frustrate the hosts, who had defended admirably for long periods.

Tactical story and standout players

El Kanemi’s best moments came from aggressive pressing and direct running. Ibrahim and Bello caused problems with their movement, while the midfield worked tirelessly to close down Raja’s creative players. Raja’s response highlighted their depth and composure, with Belhaj and El Ouali providing the key contributions in attack.

The draw keeps the CAF Confederation Cup tie finely balanced and leaves both sides with reasons for optimism. El Kanemi Warriors will take confidence from matching a major African club, while Raja Club Athletic will value the resilience shown in twice coming from behind.