Bannon: 'My Absence from Ittihad Touarga Match Was a Technical Decision; Mouqaddam and Khafifi Played a Great Game'

Badr Benoun, Raja Club Athletic player, expressed his satisfaction with the team's performance during their 1-1 draw against Ittihad Touarga in the ninth round of the Professional League. He noted that the team displayed a good level, even when playing with ten men.

Badr Benoun stated: "The players managed to score, and the match saw many scenarios, but the most important thing, thankfully, is that the players delivered the required level, even with ten men."

The Green Eagles defender added: "I believe that our physical freshness and readiness show that Raja worked hard during this break. I hope, God willing, that we achieve better results in the upcoming matches."

He continued: "I know how many minutes they played with ten men, but I thank them for the doubled effort they put in. I hope we can live up to the expectations of the Raja fans, because so far, we have not yet reached the level they aspire to."

Regarding his absence from today's match, Badr Benoun clarified: "These were the coach's choices, and frankly, I respect his decision. Abdellah Khafifi and Ismail Mouqaddam concluded the first part of the season, or the initial matches before the break, at a good level."

He concluded: "It's not right to sideline a player and keep him on the bench when he deserves to play. Today, Abdellah Khafifi and Ismail Mouqaddam delivered a great performance, which shows that Raja possesses a strong squad where any player given the opportunity will perform at the required level."