CAN Futsal 2026: Algeria earn historic first point after fighting back against Libya

Algeria came from two goals down to draw 2-2 with Libya and claim their first point in the history of the CAN de futsal on Wednesday.

The result was secured in the second round of Group A matches at the Palais du Stade Prince Moulay Abdellah in Rabat, Morocco. Libya, the defending bronze medallists, had appeared on course for victory before Algeria mounted a late comeback.

The point came two days after Algeria’s 4-0 defeat by hosts Morocco in their opening match. Nordine Benamrouche’s side now remain in contention for a place in the semi-finals, although they must beat Zambia in their final group fixture to secure what would be a historic qualification.

Algeria had an opportunity to take the lead when they were awarded a penalty, but Amar Bessa was denied by the Libyan goalkeeper. Libya then made the most of a well-worked attacking move to go ahead in the 12th minute.

Bilal Bentout came close to an equaliser before the interval, but his effort went wide of the right-hand post.

Libya doubled their advantage in the second half, punishing Algeria with a swift counter-attack in the 29th minute. The deficit left the Fennecs facing a second successive defeat, but they continued to press forward.

Their persistence paid off six minutes later when Sichaib pulled a goal back in the 34th minute. The strike gave him a place in Algeria’s futsal history as the country’s first scorer at the CAN de futsal.

Algeria completed the recovery in the 39th minute through Walid Betterki, who scored directly from a free-kick. The goal was confirmed after a VAR review.

The draw moved Algeria to within two points of the leading pair, Morocco and Zambia, who were due to meet later on Wednesday evening in a match that would determine the Group A leader.

Algeria must now defeat Zambia on the final day if they are to reach the semi-finals for the first time.