Ittihad Tanger

Founded in 1983 in the historic port city of Tangier, Ittihad Tanger, often nicknamed "The Eagles," represents the vibrant spirit of northern Morocco. The club was established to give the city a major footballing voice, quickly becoming a source of immense local pride. Their home is the modern Stade Ibn Batouta, a 65,000-capacity arena that hosted matches during the 2018 African Nations Championship and stands as a symbol of the city's ambition. While Ittihad Tanger spent many years in the lower divisions, their rise to prominence has been dramatic. The pinnacle of their history came in the 2017-18 season when they sensationally won the Botola Pro 2 title, securing promotion to the top flight. Their first season back was a fairy tale, as they defied expectations to finish as runners-up in the Botola Pro 1, earning a historic spot in the CAF Champions League. They also reached the Throne Cup final in 2019. Legendary figures include Aziz El Amri, a prolific striker and club icon, and Mourad Batna, whose skillful play was crucial during their promotion campaign. The team's identity is built on passion, resilience, and an attacking style that mirrors the city's dynamic energy. Their fan base, particularly the "Ultras Eagles," is renowned for creating a formidable atmosphere at Ibn Batouta, with their unwavering support being a twelfth man. A major rivalry exists with neighboring club Moghreb Tétouan, making the "Derby of the North" one of the most fiercely contested matches in Moroccan football. Currently competing in the Botola Pro 1, Ittihad Tanger continues to establish itself as a stable top-flight club, aiming to build on its recent successes. An interesting fact is that the club's promotion in 2018 was their first-ever to the top division, making their subsequent runner-up finish all the more remarkable. The club embodies the dream of a passionate city, transforming from a lower-league outfit into a respected force in Moroccan football.