Maghreb de Fès made a flying return to the CAF Champions League, producing a dominant home performance to defeat Burkina Faso's Rahimo 4-1 on Sunday in the first leg of the preliminary round.
Playing in front of their home supporters, MAS took control from the opening minutes and put themselves in a strong position ahead of the decisive return fixture.
Brika Sets the Tone
The hosts needed just seven minutes to break the deadlock.
Brika found the back of the net early, giving MAS the perfect start and immediately putting pressure on their Burkinabe opponents.
The Fez side continued to dictate the tempo and create opportunities, with their attacking pressure eventually producing a second goal just before halftime.
Allouch Doubles the Advantage
Deep into first-half stoppage time, Allouch struck to make it 2-0.
The goal gave MAS a comfortable advantage heading into the break and capped an impressive opening 45 minutes from the Moroccan side.
Rahimo Respond, MAS Answer
Rahimo managed to pull one goal back in the 59th minute, briefly reducing the deficit and offering the visitors hope of changing the momentum.
MAS, however, responded with composure and quickly regained control of the contest.
Titus and Ibayi Complete the Rout
The hosts restored their two-goal cushion in the 72nd minute, with Titus finding the net to make it 3-1.
Just four minutes later, Ibayi added a fourth, completing an emphatic victory and sending the home supporters into celebration.
The final whistle confirmed a 4-1 triumph, giving MAS a three-goal advantage heading into the return leg.
A Strong Position for the Second Leg
The result puts the Fez-based side in an excellent position ahead of the second meeting, which will take place in Burkina Faso on September 12.
MAS will now look to manage their advantage on the road and complete their progression to the next stage of Africa's premier club competition.
A Dream Start to the Continental Journey
Returning to the CAF Champions League is already a significant moment for Maghreb de Fès, and the emphatic opening victory has provided an even greater platform for the campaign ahead.
Four goals, a commanding advantage, and a night to remember in Fez, MAS have announced their return to Africa's elite club competition with real authority.