Morocco target fourth straight Futsal AFCON title after Group A draw

Three-time defending champions Morocco will face Algeria, Libya and Zambia in Group A of the 2026 Futsal Africa Cup of Nations as they attempt to claim a fourth consecutive continental title on home soil.

The draw was held on Monday at the Mohammed VI Football Complex in Salé, with the eight qualified nations split into two groups of four.

Morocco will host the tournament from 12 to 21 October, with Group B comprising Egypt, Angola, Mozambique and Tanzania.

Morocco face North African challenge

Morocco enter the competition as the team to beat after winning the previous three editions in 2016, 2020 and 2024.

Their most recent triumph came in April 2024, when Hicham Dguig’s side defeated Angola 5-1 in the final in Rabat.

Soufiane Borite, Idriss Raiss El Fenni, Soufiane El Mesrar, Anas El Ayyane and Bilal Bakkali were among the scorers as Morocco secured their third successive continental crown.

That victory moved Morocco level with Egypt on three Futsal AFCON titles and established them as one of the dominant forces in African futsal.

Libya and Algeria provide stern tests

The presence of Algeria and Libya means Morocco will face two familiar North African opponents during the group stage.

Libya have significant experience in the competition and represented Africa at the 2024 FIFA Futsal World Cup after finishing third at the previous Futsal AFCON.

Algeria, meanwhile, qualified after overcoming Guinea in the qualifying rounds and will make their first appearance at the final tournament. Zambia complete Group A after also progressing through qualification.

Morocco are expected to start as favourites, but Dguig’s side will have to negotiate a competitive group before turning their attention to the knockout stages.

Egypt and Angola lead Group B

Egypt, who share the record of three Futsal AFCON titles with Morocco, headline Group B alongside Angola, Mozambique and Tanzania.

Angola will be particularly motivated after finishing runners-up to Morocco in the 2024 final, while Mozambique and Tanzania will look to cause an upset.

The top two teams from each group are expected to advance to the semi-finals, followed by the final and third-place play-off.

Morocco prepare for home tournament

The October finals represent another opportunity for Morocco to extend their dominance of African futsal and become the first team to win the competition four times in succession.

Dguig’s squad will continue its preparations ahead of the tournament, with international friendlies forming part of their build-up.

Morocco are scheduled to face Bosnia and Herzegovina twice on 13 and 15 August at the Mohammed VI Football Complex as they fine-tune their preparations for the continental championship.