Raja Casablanca Bolsters Technical Staff with Sandilands Goalkeeping Appointment

Raja Casablanca has officially welcomed Wayne Sandilands, the former Orlando PiratesTeam·Orlando Pirates and Mamelodi Sundowns goalkeeper, to its technical staff for the upcoming 2026/27 season. Head coach Nasreddine NabiCoach·Nasreddine Nabi confirmed the appointment, highlighting the strategic importance of bringing in a figure of Sandilands' calibre.

Nabi articulated his rationale behind the decision, emphasizing the value Sandilands will bring to the club's goalkeeping department.

"I have respect for him, and he's a true professional. I contacted him because I believe my goalkeepers will benefit from someone like him"— Nasreddine Nabi.

Sandilands has already arrived in Morocco and commenced preparations with the team, stepping into a role previously held by Tunisian coach Ilyes MzoughiCoach·Ilyes Mzoughi. His extensive coaching background includes notable stints with Maritzburg United, the Orlando PiratesTeam·Orlando Pirates DStv Diski Challenge side, Simba SC in Tanzania, and AmaZulu FC, underscoring a career dedicated to developing goalkeeping talent across the African continent.

The appointment comes as Raja Casablanca prepares for a demanding season, having concluded the 2025/26 Botola Pro Inwi league campaign in third place with 56 points. The club secured 16 wins, 8 draws, and 6 losses, scoring 39 goals and conceding 19, which resulted in a goal difference of +20. This performance saw them finish three points adrift of league champions MAS FèsTeam·MAS Fès. Raja Casablanca's strong league showing earned them qualification for the CAF Confederation CupCompetition·CAF Confederation Cup, adding another significant competition to their calendar.

Nasreddine NabiCoach·Nasreddine Nabi himself took the helm as Raja Casablanca's head coach on June 12, 2026, succeeding Fadlu DavidsCoach·Fadlu Davids. His arrival, followed by the strategic addition of Sandilands, signals a clear intent to strengthen the team's foundational elements as they aim for success both domestically and in continental competition.