Algeria claimed their first-ever point in the history of the CAN de futsal after recovering from two goals down to draw 2-2 with Libya on Wednesday.
The result came on the second matchday of the group stage at the Palais du Stade Prince Moulay Abdellah in Rabat, Morocco. Libya, the reigning bronze medallists, appeared on course for victory before Algeria’s late response earned Nordine Benamrouche’s side a valuable point.
The draw represents a significant turnaround for Algeria, who had begun their campaign with a 4-0 defeat by hosts Morocco on Monday. Despite that setback, the Algerians showed enough character to remain in contention for a place in the semi-finals.
They were handed an opportunity to take the lead when they won a penalty, but Amar Bessa was unable to beat the Libyan goalkeeper. Libya made Algeria pay in the 12th minute, finishing a well-worked team move to move in front.
Algeria tried to respond before the interval. Bilal Bentout came close to levelling when his effort went just wide of the right-hand post, but the Fennecs went into the break behind.
Libya then extended their advantage in the second half, capitalising on a rapid counter-attack in the 29th minute. Algeria, however, refused to give up and continued to apply pressure.
Their persistence was rewarded in the 34th minute when Sichaib reduced the deficit. The goal secured his place in Algerian futsal history, making him the first player from the country to score at the CAN de futsal.
The comeback was completed in the 39th minute. Walid Betterki struck directly from a free-kick to make it 2-2, with the goal confirmed after a VAR review.
The point leaves Algeria provisionally two points behind the leading pair of Morocco and Zambia in Group A. The two teams were due to meet later on Wednesday in a match that would determine who finished the day at the top of the section.
Algeria’s qualification hopes will now come down to their final group game. They must beat Zambia to reach the semi-finals and secure what would be a historic achievement for the team.