Morocco reach the Futsal AFCON semi-finals with 17 goals scored and none conceded

Morocco entered the tournament carrying the pressure that comes with three consecutive African titles. Hicham Dguig’s side responded with a near-flawless first round, beating Algeria 4-0, Zambia 7-0 and Libya 6-0.

The figures are imposing: nine points, 17 goals and none conceded. More importantly, the goals have come from several areas of the squad.

Morocco’s road to the semi-final

Morocco established control from their opening match. Against Algeria, high pressing and quick ball circulation prevented the tournament newcomers from settling into the derby. Jaouad’s hat-trick supplied the cutting edge.

The second match became Idriss Raiss El Fenni’s showcase. He scored three times inside nine minutes and finished with four goals as Morocco overwhelmed Zambia. Yanis Ahmed Erraddaf, Soufiane Charraoui and Jaouad also found the net.

Qualification was already secured before the Libya match, yet Morocco did not reduce their intensity. Captain Soufiane El Mesrar scored three, Othmane Elidrissi added two and Bilal Bakkali completed the 6-0 win.

Depth at both ends

Morocco’s attack has not depended on one player. Jaouad, El Fenni and El Mesrar have each led a different match, while other players have contributed throughout the rotation.

The clean-sheet record may be even more significant. Futsal matches can change within seconds, but Morocco have combined their attacking ambition with disciplined pressing, rapid defensive transitions and strong protection of the goalkeeper.

That balance will be tested against Egypt.

The Pharaohs opened their campaign with an 8-0 win over Tanzania and beat Mozambique 4-0 before losing their final group match to Angola. They finished second in Group B but remain one of African futsal’s most experienced sides.

Morocco and Egypt each hold three continental titles. A Moroccan victory in the tournament would therefore create a new outright record of four.

The semi-final on October 19 is where the tournament changes character. Group-stage superiority no longer provides protection: one misplaced pass, an accumulation of fouls or a successful flying-goalkeeper strategy can decide the contest.

Morocco have completed the first part of their mission with authority. Their attempt to turn dominance into history now passes through Egypt.