Morocco is set to compete in the 2026 Futsal Africa Cup of Nations, seeking a fourth consecutive title. Captain Soufiane El Mesrar believes that the team's past success should not lead to complacency. The Atlas Lions have spent a decade learning how to win African futsal titles and now face the challenge of sustaining their momentum. El Mesrar emphasizes that the team must approach the tournament with the same hunger and determination as in previous years.
Morocco's preparations for the tournament have been ongoing, with coach Hicham Dguig focusing on technical, physical, and mental aspects. The team has worked on specific tactical ideas to surprise opponents in the later matches. El Mesrar highlights the importance of the mental side, particularly given the compressed 10-day tournament format. The team's final phase of preparations took place at the Mohammed VI Football Complex.
Morocco's dominant recent record does not guarantee an easy path, according to El Mesrar. He notes that other teams, such as Egypt, Angola, and Libya, have made significant progress and will arrive with their own ambitions. El Mesrar emphasizes that all teams will come looking to win and defend their countries, which can create difficulties for Morocco.
Morocco's first match against Algeria on October 12 is seen as particularly important by El Mesrar. A victory would give the team greater control over the rest of the group phase, particularly in managing accumulated cards and player fatigue during the short tournament. Morocco's group also includes Zambia and Libya, with all three matches taking place at the Prince Moulay Abdellah Sports Hall in Rabat.
El Mesrar highlights the significance of Morocco's global reputation, having reached the quarterfinals of the last two FIFA Futsal World Cups and currently sitting sixth in the world. However, he emphasizes that the ranking does not guarantee an easy win and that the team must show their level on the pitch. El Mesrar stresses that a ranking means nothing if the team is not prepared in every aspect.
El Mesrar has been part of Morocco's rise through multiple tournament cycles and still has a strong appetite for success. He believes that the blend of experienced players and newer faces in the current group can work in Morocco's favor. El Mesrar describes the atmosphere inside the squad as one of the team's strengths, with a strong sense of unity and camaraderie.
El Mesrar directed a final message at the supporters, urging them to come in large numbers and support the team throughout the tournament. He promises that the Africa Cup will stay in Morocco. The team's goal is to make history by winning a fourth consecutive African crown, which would move them alone to the top of the tournament's all-time standings.
Key points
- Morocco's futsal team seeks a fourth consecutive African title under captain Soufiane El Mesrar.
