Algeria’s first appearance at the Africa Cup of Nations Futsal ended in semi-final disappointment as Angola recovered from two goals down to win 3-2 in Rabat.
The result also denied Algeria the chance to face Morocco in a potential revenge meeting after their heavy defeat by the holders in the group stage.
At the Complexe Prince Moulay Abdellah on Monday, Noureddine Benamrouche’s side made an impressive start against the reigning runners-up.
Mathieu Hammad opened the scoring in the ninth minute with a free-kick after Rayane Ait Hamadouche had been fouled. Ait Hamadouche then doubled Algeria’s advantage in the 20th minute, finishing a fine individual run after the goal was confirmed following a VAR review.
However, Angola gradually took control and the Palancas Negras turned the match around in the second half.
Algeria were initially kept in front by the woodwork and a series of important saves from their goalkeeper, but the pressure eventually told. Angola scored in the 29th, 35th and 38th minutes to complete their comeback and secure a place in the final for the second successive edition.
The defeat ended Algeria’s hopes of meeting Morocco again. The three-time defending champions had beaten them 4-0 in their opening group match, setting up the possibility of a rematch if both teams had reached the final.
Instead, Angola will face Morocco for the title.
Despite the semi-final loss, Algeria’s campaign remains a significant achievement. After their opening defeat, the team, including captain Walid Betterki, recovered to reach the last four in what was a historic qualification.
They began that recovery with a 2-2 draw against Libya, the previous tournament’s bronze medallists, before beating Zambia 7-4.
Angola, meanwhile, will now have the opportunity to go one step further than their previous campaign, having finished as Africa’s runners-up and reached another final.