Futsal AFCON 2026: Angola overturn two-goal deficit to deny Algeria a place in the final

Algeria’s historic run at the 2026 Futsal Africa Cup of Nations ended in the semi-finals as Angola recovered from two goals down to win 3-2 and reach the final for a second successive year.

The Fennecs looked on course for victory on Monday at the Complexe Prince Moulay Abdellah in Rabat, Morocco, after establishing a commanding early lead. But Angola, the reigning runners-up, staged a three-goal comeback to book their place in the final.

Mathieu Hammad opened the scoring in the ninth minute, converting from a free-kick awarded after a foul on Rayane Ait Hamadouche. Ait Hamadouche then doubled Algeria’s advantage in the 20th minute with an individual effort, which was confirmed following a VAR review.

Algeria were increasingly forced into a defensive position as Angola pressed for a way back into the contest. The Palancas Negras were initially denied by the woodwork and then by a series of important saves from the Algerian goalkeeper.

The resistance finally ended in the 29th minute, when Angola pulled a goal back. They equalised six minutes later before completing the turnaround in the 38th minute.

The result ended Algeria’s hopes of meeting Morocco again in the tournament. The three-time holders had beaten the Fennecs 4-0 in their opening group match, raising the possibility of a semi-final rematch and a chance for revenge. Instead, Angola will face Morocco in the final.

Despite the defeat, Algeria’s campaign represents a significant achievement in their first appearance at the Futsal Africa Cup of Nations. After losing to Morocco, Noureddine Benamrouche’s side recovered to secure a historic semi-final place.

Walid Betterki and his team-mates drew 2-2 with Libya, the outgoing bronze medallists, before finishing the group stage with a 4-7 victory against Zambia.

For Angola, the comeback maintains their challenge for the title and sends them into a second consecutive final.