Angola will seek to dethrone hosts and defending champions Morocco when both sides clash in Wednesday’s final of the TotalEnergies CAF Futsal Africa Cup of Nations Morocco 2026, with Palancas Negras star Hornes Santo insisting that his team will not back down in pursuit of a historic first continental title.

The final, scheduled for October 21 at the Moulay Abdellah Sports Hall in Rabat, is a repeat of the 2024 showpiece, when Morocco defeated Angola to retain the trophy. The hosts are chasing a record-extending fourth title, while Angola hope to go one better than their runners-up finish in the previous edition.  

Angola booked their place in a second consecutive final after producing a remarkable comeback to defeat Algeria 3-2 in Monday’s semi-final, recovering from a two-goal deficit to score three times in the second half.

Mathieu Hammad and Ait Hamadouche gave Algeria a 2-0 lead before Aderito Santos reduced the deficit. Hornes Santo then equalised five minutes from time, setting the stage for Francisco Gabriel Chico to score the decisive goal two minutes before the end.  

Reflecting on his equaliser and Angola’s dramatic turnaround, Hornes Santo told CAFOnline: “First of all, I thank God for everything he has done in my life. It was a wonderful feeling. I’m so happy, I can’t explain what I’m feeling right now.”  

The Angolan star credited his side’s resilience and unwavering belief for their ability to recover from difficult situations, sending a clear message ahead of the final against Morocco.

“We never give up. We always believe. The game only finishes when the clock reaches zero, and if we have to go to penalties, we’ll believe, game by game.”  

For Hornes Santo, the final represents an opportunity to achieve a major personal ambition while helping Angola make history in African futsal.

“I’m here to become a champion,” he said. “I’m not here to visit Morocco, I’m here to compete. This is my time.”  

Angola’s challenge will be formidable. Morocco secured their place in the final with a commanding 6-0 victory over Egypt, strengthening their bid for a fourth continental crown on home soil.  

The final therefore presents Angola with a chance to overturn the outcome of the 2024 meeting and deny Morocco another title in front of their supporters.

With confidence strengthened by their semi-final recovery, Angola will enter the contest determined to match their fighting spirit with the discipline and execution required to overcome the tournament favourites.

For Morocco, the objective is to maintain their dominance of African futsal, while for Angola, it is a chance to convert consecutive final appearances into a maiden championship.