Soufiane Lahlioui: a standout season at Dina Kenitra
Dina Kenitra FC proudly celebrates one of its most emblematic players, Soufiane Lahlioui (28), who is once again delivering a remarkable season. With the current campaign still underway, Lahlioui is already among the league’s top scorers, confirming his status as a cornerstone of the club’s attacking force.
His consistency, leadership, and killer instinct in front of goal have made him a key figure in Moroccan futsal — and he is on track to finish as the club’s top scorer for a third consecutive season, an extraordinary achievement that few players have matched at this level.
We had the privilege of sitting down with Soufiane to reflect on his journey, from his earliest days in Kenitra's Hay Wafaa district (also known as Sebt), to becoming a central figure at Dina Kenitra FC.
Soufiane began his footballing path not in futsal, but on the larger football pitches of his neighborhood and youth centers. His first steps were taken at Dar Chabab, and he went on to play with several amateur clubs, including Kawakib Kenitra, the youth school of KAC Kenitra, and Nahdat Kenitra.
Growing up, he was inspired by local players such as Soufiane Mesrar and Bilal Bakkali, and it was clear from early on that he had a unique flair.
“My style is similar to that of Dyego, a Brazilian player I’ve always admired,” he told us. “My biggest strength is long-distance shooting. It’s something I’ve always worked on.”
Being named the league’s top scorer for three straight seasons is an incredible honor — and Soufiane doesn’t take it lightly:
“It’s a great pride. Being top scorer three years in a row in a competitive Moroccan futsal league is no easy task.”
He credits much of his development to key mentors, including Massoud Berdiz, his first coach in Kenitra, and Driss Talmoust, who introduced him to advanced futsal skills and constantly pushed him forward. He also pays tribute to the renowned national team coach Hicham Dguig, whom he describes as a major influence in his career.
On the international level, Soufiane represented Morocco’s U23 team in matches against Bahrain, Panama, and Libya. Despite only one appearance being officially listed, his contribution extended beyond that. Reflecting on Morocco’s recent World Cup campaign in Uzbekistan, he mentioned that while the squad was strong, injuries and fatigue took a toll. “But with Coach Hicham Dguig at the helm, we’re never afraid to face the toughest opponents — he prepares the team to compete without fear or pressure.”
Beyond the pitch, Soufiane is deeply committed to inspiring the next generation in Kenitra.
“The most important thing is hard work and perseverance. Focus on yourself, don’t compare yourself to others. Keep believing in your dream — no matter the obstacles.”
As for the future, Lahlioui has his sights set on even greater heights with Dina Kenitra FC:
“My goal is to win the national league and the Throne Cup with this club.”
Soufiane Lahlioui is more than just a prolific scorer — he is a role model for youth in Kenitra, a pillar of the club, and a proud ambassador of Moroccan futsal.
