Futsal AFCON 2026: Morocco vs Libya Preview, team news and where to watch

Morocco will aim to maintain their perfect record at the 2026 Futsal Africa Cup of Nations when they face Libya in their final Group A fixture on Friday, 16 October.

The defending champions have already secured top spot and a place in the semi-finals after winning their opening two matches, beating Algeria 4-0 before thrashing Zambia 7-0 on Wednesday.

Hicham Dguig’s side head into the encounter at the Prince Moulay Abdellah Sports Hall in Rabat with six points, 11 goals scored and none conceded.

Libya, meanwhile, have collected one point and need a victory to keep their hopes of reaching the semi-finals alive, although their progress will also depend on the result between Zambia and Algeria.

Kick-off is scheduled for 20:00 Moroccan time, with the match set to be broadcast on Arryadia and CAF TV on YouTube.

Morocco without Chaaraoui for Libya clash

Morocco will be without Soufiane Chaaraoui after the player suffered an injury during their victory over Zambia.

The Royal Moroccan Football Federation (FRMF) confirmed on Thursday that preliminary medical examinations had ruled him out of the Libya match. Further examinations will determine the extent of the injury and whether he can return before the tournament ends.

Chaaraoui was among the scorers in Morocco’s emphatic win over Zambia, alongside Yanis Ahmed Erraddaf and Youssef Jouad.

Idriss Raiss El Fenni was the standout performer, scoring four goals. He completed his hat-trick inside the opening nine minutes before adding another shortly after half-time.

Despite the convincing result, Dguig acknowledged that his team still had areas to improve, particularly when facing opponents who defend in compact formations.

With qualification and first place already secured, the Morocco coach could also rotate his squad to manage the players’ workload ahead of the semi-finals.

Libya seek a route into the semi-finals

Libya face a more pressing challenge as they attempt to secure a place in the last four.

The Mediterranean Knights lost 3-1 to Zambia before drawing 2-2 with Algeria, having surrendered a two-goal advantage in the latter encounter.

Under Brazilian coach Pereira da Silva, Libya must beat Morocco to keep their qualification hopes alive, while also relying on the outcome of Zambia’s match against Algeria.

Experienced goalkeeper Ziyad Azeez, who saved a penalty against Algeria, and Mohamed Khamis, who featured at the 2024 FIFA Futsal World Cup, are among the players Libya will look to as they face the defending champions.

Atlas Lions carry strong record into final group match

Morocco enter Friday’s contest having scored 11 goals without conceding in their opening two games, underlining their strong start as they pursue a fourth consecutive African title.

The hosts also defeated Libya 6-0 in the semi-finals of the 2024 Futsal AFCON, giving them an encouraging record ahead of the latest meeting.

However, with Morocco’s group position already settled, the match presents different priorities for the two teams. Dguig can manage playing time and prepare his squad for the knockout stage, while Libya must pursue a result that keeps their tournament alive.

The encounter will therefore offer Morocco an opportunity to extend their winning run and Libya a final chance to strengthen their bid for a semi-final place.

Match details

• Fixture: Morocco vs Libya
• Competition: 2026 Futsal Africa Cup of Nations, Group A
• Date: Friday, 16 October 2026
• Venue: Prince Moulay Abdellah Sports Hall, Rabat
• Kick-off: 20:00 Moroccan time
• Broadcast: Arryadia and CAF TV on YouTube