Algeria reach historic CAN futsal semi-finals as Morocco make it three wins

Algeria have reached the semi-finals of the CAN futsal 2026 on their first appearance in the competition, while holders Morocco completed the group stage with a perfect record.

The Fennecs secured their historic qualification by beating Zambia 7-4 in Rabat on the third and final matchday of Group A. Noureddine Benamrouche’s side had needed victory after opening the tournament with a 4-0 defeat by Morocco before drawing 2-2 with Egypt.

Algeria made the ideal start against Zambia, moving into a 4-0 lead and taking control of a match they had to win. The Zambians then mounted a determined fightback, reducing the deficit to 4-1, 4-2 and eventually 4-3.

However, Algeria regained their composure and pulled clear again, with Walid Betterki proving decisive. The Vaulx-en-Velin pivot scored twice before half-time and added three more goals after the interval to complete a five-goal haul.

The result sent Algeria through as Group A runners-up. They will face the winners of Group B for a place in the final.

Morocco, already assured of their semi-final place before the final round of fixtures, ended the group stage in emphatic fashion with a 6-0 victory over Libya, the reigning bronze medallists.

The match was watched by Fouzi Lekjaa, president of the Federation royale marocaine de football (FRMF), who was recently appointed minister of Economy and Finance.

Hicham Dguig’s team finished top of the group after winning all three of their matches. Morocco scored 17 goals and conceded none, underlining their dominance throughout the opening phase of the tournament.

The result also strengthened the position of the three-time defending champions as they pursue an unprecedented fourth successive title. Their perfect record and unbeaten defensive performance leave them firmly established as the team to beat as the competition moves into the knockout stage.

For Algeria, meanwhile, the victory over Zambia marked the first win in the country’s history at the CAN de futsal and completed a notable advance to the last four on their tournament debut.