Maniema vs FAR Rabat Prediction: The home team to pull off a shocking performance

Maniema will host FAR Rabat at Stade des Martyrs in round three of the CAF Champions League. Both teams settled for a draw against their last opponent, will there be a winner in this one?

Maniema played Raja Casablanca in their previous CAF Champions League, and they settled for a 1-1 draw. Maniema had to come from behind in that game to avoid a defeat, thanks to Joseph Bakasu’s strike, cancelling Younes Najjari’s early strike for Raja Casablanca. However, their opener in this competition saw this team hold Mamelodi Sundowns to a goalless draw. Maniema have not won any of their last three games, heading into this game, losing to AC Rangers in a league encounter. In the Group B standings, Maniema have two points, scoring one and conceding one, leaving them seated third. 

FAR Rabat played Mamelodi Sundowns, and they settled for a 1-1 draw. In that encounter, the two teams settled for a goalless draw and had to come from behind in the 74th minute through Mohamed Hrimat. However, FAR Rabat are unbeaten in their last four games, winning two and drawing Union Touarga in that run. In fact, this team has only one defeat in eight matches, coming against Maghreb Fez. However, while drawing three others, oyster encounters saw FAR Rabat defeat FUS Rabat, Renaissance Zemamra, Raja Casablanca, and Jeunesse Sportive Soualem. 

Maniema have consistently shown that they can not be written off in this competition, and I will trust them for the first time. While FAR Rabat have been the best side in Group B, being on the road will not be an issue for them. However, having shown their quality in defence so much this season, holding strong sides to draws, Maniema could secure their first win on this stage. Also, while FAR Rabat have been decent offensively, I expect goals in this encounter.