2024 Futsal African Cup of Nations ends on an exceptionally high note; Morocco crowned African champions for the third time in a row

The 2024 Futsal African Cup of Nations held in Morocco April 11-21 ended on an exceptionally high note in Rabat on Sunday, after an exhilarating final that opposed Angola and Morocco, the holder of the title, who trashed Angola 5 to 1 and won its third cup in a row.

The Futsal Atlas Lions secured their third consecutive continental title, becoming champions of Africa on Sunday, April 21 in Rabat, after their victory over Angola (5-1).

In the presence of the leaders of Moroccan, global, and African football, and amidst a festive atmosphere, the Moroccan team brilliantly clinched the Africa Cup of Nations. Another achievement for the national football!

The futsal Atlas Lions aimed for the ultimate prize and they were right! They lived up to their reputation as the best nation in the discipline in Africa and among the best in the world. They also fulfilled the expectations of the Moroccan public.

In a packed salle, Hicham Dguig’s men, backed by a large audience, the match having been played to a sold-out crowd, fulfilled their promises by securing another continental triumph.

Facing determined Angolans playing without inhibition, especially since they had achieved their main goal of qualifying for the World Cup, the teammates of captain Soufiane El Mesrar remained true to themselves by displaying concentration and dedication.

And it’s with the qualities they’re known for that the Atlas Lions ultimately emerged victorious and qualified for the 2024 World Cup. Actually, the stakes of this tournament were higher than ever as the three podium finishers are guaranteed a place at the FIFA Futsal World Cup, scheduled in Uzbekistan (September 14-October 6). Besides Morocco and Angola, Libya, holder of the bronze medal at this 2024 Futsal African Cup of Nations will also participate in the World Cup.
The closing of the tournament was marked by a colorful ceremony that was attended by FIFA President, Gianni Infantino, CAF President, Patrice Motsepe, President of the FRMF, Fouzi Lekjaa, and Minister of education and youth, Chakib Benmoussa. The grand show marking the grand mass and the exceptional organization of the tournament earned Morocco admiration and praise.

FIFA President Gianni Infantino praised in this vein Morocco as a “global football power”

“Morocco has established itself as a global football power, not only on the field and sporting results, with obviously the historic qualification to the semi-final of the Qatar-2022 World Cup, but also as the host country of several major events”, FIFA President told the press upon arrival earlier Sunday in Rabat to attend in the final game of the African Cup of Nations in Futsal.

“I am happy to have returned home, to the Kingdom of Morocco. It is football that dominates, breathes, vibrates and lives in this country,” he said.

Regarding the futsal AFCON, Infantino said that “Morocco plays an important role as the host country”, hailing an “exceptional” organization.

“On the eve of the 2030 World Cup, we know what Morocco knows and can do. We are proud to be part of this great team here in Morocco to participate in these future challenges which will change the image of football in the world thanks to Morocco”, he underlined.

Actually, Morocco has accumulated a rich experience and undeniable expertise in organizing major sporting events. The 2018 CHAN, the 2020 Futsal CAN in Laayoune, the recent women’s CAN, the upcoming CAN U23, the coming five editions of the U17 women’s CAN, the 2025 CAN, and the 2030 World Cup, as well as several editions of the Club World Cup, including the latest one.
All this success is undoubtedly the result of the vision of King Mohammed VI, who attaches particular importance to the development of sports and the promotion of fair play and solidarity values. The Sovereign spares no effort to make Morocco a privileged host for major sports events and an essential player in the African sports landscape.