Morocco begin title defence against Algeria in TotalEnergies CAF Futsal AFCON North African derby

Defending champions Morocco begin their quest for a fourth continental title on Monday when they face Algeria in a North African derby at the TotalEnergies CAF Futsal Africa Cup of Nations Morocco 2026.

The Atlas Lions take to the court at the Moulay Abdellah Sports Hall in Rabat on Monday for a 20h00 Local Time kick off, with the backing of the home crowd as they seek to extend their remarkable run in the competition.

Hicham Dguig’s side have won the last three editions (2016, 2020, 2024) establishing Morocco as the dominant force in African futsal. They will now look to maintain that record on home soil and add another title to their collection.

Experienced campaigners Soufiane El Mesrar, Soufiane Borite and Soufiane Charraoui headline Dguig’s 14-man squad for the 10-day competition.

Speaking ahead of the encounter, Dguig welcomed Morocco’s opportunity to host the tournament for a third consecutive edition and stressed his side’s determination to defend their crown.

“We are extremely happy that the Kingdom of Morocco is hosting this edition for the third time in a row, and we are fully ready to put on a good competition and try to defend our title on home soil,” said the Morocco coach.

Algeria, meanwhile, are preparing for their first appearance at the TotalEnergies CAF Futsal AFCON, with the North Africans eager to make an immediate impression against the reigning champions.

Coach Nordine Benamrouche will be looking to guide the Fennecs through a challenging group that also includes Zambia and Libya. Their opening encounter against Morocco offers an early test of their ambitions against one of the continent’s most established sides.

Benamrouche expressed satisfaction with his team’s preparations, while acknowledging the challenge that awaits them in their tournament debut.

“Our preparations have been very good, and we are looking forward to a very tough match. This is our first appearance, but we would like to give a good impression of ourselves and the development of the sport,” he said.

With Morocco aiming to maintain their grip on the continental crown and Algeria eager to make a strong debut, Monday’s derby promises a compelling start to both teams’ campaigns in Rabat.