With all the group games complete, we now know all four teams that will fight for a place in the grand Futsal World Cup final on Sunday.
Playing in Group E hosts Brazil defeated Ukraine 5-3 to finish first in the group. This was Brazil’s 7th consecutive victory in the competition.
In a direct clash for the second place in Group E, Iran and Italy battled till the last minute to see who would go through the semi-finals.
An electrifying game form start to finish, Iran were in front on two occasions. But when the Asians thought they had it in the bag, Bertoni spoiled Iran’s party with a late equaliser with just 50 seconds left on the clock. The draw wasn’t good for the Iranians but good enough for Italy, who finished second in the group and will play Spain in the semis.
Spain confirmed why they were favourites and defeated Paraguay by 4 goals to 1, finishing first in Group F. Highlights to yet another Brazilian born player Fernandao, who scored a hat trick for Spain.
Playing for the final place in the semi’s Argentina and Russia drew 2 each. The South Americans had to win to advance but failed to get past Russia, the Russians were able to resist the pressure applied by Argentina and will face Brazil in the semi-finals.
Semi-Finals
16/10 – Russia x Brazil (Rio de Janeiro)
16/10 – Spain V Italy (Rio de Janeiro)
