CAN Futsal 2026: The Greens secure a draw and keep their chances alive (video)

Oct 14, 2026

On the brink of elimination after conceding two goals, the Algerian futsal team managed to dig deep and equalize against Libya (2-2) this Wednesday in Rabat. This result keeps their qualification hopes alive ahead of a crucial final match against Zambia.

This Wednesday, the Algerian national futsal team experienced a whirlwind of emotions during the second day of the 2026 Africa Cup of Nations, held in Morocco. Facing Libya in a Maghreb derby in Rabat, the Greens were behind for much of the match before pulling off a spectacular draw (2-2) in the final moments. This result is crucial for a team participating in this continental tournament for the first time in its history.

After their heavy defeat against Morocco (0-4) in their opening match, Nordine Benamrouche's men needed to respond to stay in contention for the semi-finals. However, the start of the match quickly complicated their task. Despite having a chance to take the lead with a penalty in the 6th minute, Amar Bessa was denied by Libyan goalkeeper Ziyad Azeez.

The Libyans then capitalized on Algerian mistakes to open the scoring in the 12th minute through Brahim Lemhamel. After the break, Abdulhakim Rashid doubled the lead in the 29th minute, putting the Greens in a particularly precarious situation.

Despite this, the Algerians did not give up and continued to attack. Their perseverance finally paid off in the 34th minute when Skander Ali Si Chaïb pulled one back with a low shot. The end of the match then swung in favor of the Greens. The expulsion of Ahmed Abdelaziz in the 38th minute for a second yellow card gave the Algerians a chance.

From the resulting free kick, Walid Betterki hit the post. The ball was eventually deflected into the net by Samyr Teffaf, who equalized for Algeria in the 39th minute. The validation of the goal after video review confirmed this unexpected comeback.

With this first point in the tournament, the Greens remain in the race, but their situation is still precarious. Bottom of Group A, tied on points with Libya, they must beat Zambia on Friday and hope for a favorable scenario to advance to the semi-finals.

DZfoot