Brazil defends FIFA Beach Soccer World Cup title
Published on May 12, 2025
By IANS
- VICTORIA
(SEYCHELLES) — Brazil won a record-extending seventh FIFA
Beach Soccer World Cup title, edging Belarus 4-3 in a thrilling final to retain
its crown at the 2025 edition of the tournament.
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- This is Brazil's second consecutive World Cup title and
seventh overall.
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- The goals for the Brazil came from Rodrigo (twice, and he
was named player of the match), Lucao, and Catarino. Belarus scored through
Ihar Bryshtsel (x2), who was the tournament's top scorer, and Yauheni Novikau.
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- Brazil conceded just eight goals in the entire World Cup,
becoming the champion with the fewest goals conceded, breaking France's record
of 11 in 2005.
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- The defending champion took early control of the match in
Victoria, Seychelles, building a 3-1 lead in the second period thanks to a
combination of technical flair and attacking efficiency. But Belarus, appearing
in its first-ever World Cup final, mounted a spirited comeback. Striker Ihar
Bryshtsel scored twice midway through the final period to bring the game level
at 3-3, reports Xinhua.
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- With just 101 seconds remaining, Brazil's Rodrigo secured
the win, driving forward and firing home his second goal of the match to break
the deadlock and seal the victory.
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- Earlier in the evening, Portugal clinched third place
with a narrow 3-2 win over Senegal. Tied 2-2 in the final period, Portugal
defender Andre Lourenco converted a penalty following a defensive error by
Senegal to give the two-time champion the edge. Portugal held firm in the
closing minutes to secure the podium finish.
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- “I’m really happy, really emotional. I’ve dreamed of this
since I was a kid. It was a tough game but as soon as they made it 3-3, I was
absolutely certain we’d win. Rodrigo is exceptional. He’s the best player in
the world, Thanger, Brazil player said.
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- “We wanted to beat Brazil, but we are very happy and
proud to have finished second at the World Cup. It’s historic. In team sports
in Belarus, it’s unique.” Belarus' Ihar Bryshtsel said.
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- The 2025 tournament marked the first time Seychelles
hosted the Beach Soccer World Cup.