Hosts Cape Verde go up against Portugal, England and Spain at the Sal Beach Soccer Cup from Friday to Sunday.
Cape Verde will hope to mark their top-level international debut with a strong display when they host the Sal Beach Soccer Cup on home sand from Friday to Sunday.
The Tubaroes Azuis are not only featuring at their first elite international tournament, the African nation is also hosting its premier event on the Beach Soccer Worldwide calendar as the sport continues apace within the continent.
Alongside world champions Portugal – fresh from Copa Pilsener success in El Salvador – Cape Verde will be joined by European giants Spain and England for the four-team round robin contest.
Portugal, ranked second in the world, will likely be favourites to clinch the title but England and Spain will hope to spring a surprise as well in their maiden outings of 2016.
The hosts are certain to put on a tournament for the island to be proud of but face a stern test on the sand, starting against England on Friday after Portugal and Spain have got the tournament up and running,
Saturday sees Portugal meet England prior to Cape Verde’s clash against Spain while the third and final day rounds the competition off as Spain and England do battle before Cape Verde and Portugal bring the event to a close.
Despite lacking experience in the world of beach soccer, compared to this weekend’s rivals, Cape Verde coach Pu Brito insists his men can spring a shock in front of their home crowd.
“Cape Verde are working seriously to be able to play on equal terms with the best in the world,” he said recently. “This is our goal.
“The other teams are at an advantage because they are all professionals and are constantly participating in international championships but we can cause some surprises.
“With international broadcasts, our tournament will be seen live by millions of people, giving Cape Verde international promotion this weekend.”
Match schedule:
All matches are available via live stream from beachsoccer.com – kick-offs stated are in local time.
Friday, April 29th – 15.00 – Portugal v Spain
Friday, April 29th – 16.15 – England v Cape Verde
Saturday, April 30th – 15.00 – 16.15 – Portugal v England
Saturday, April 30th – 16.15 – Cape Verde v Spain
Sunday, May 1st – 15.00 – Spain v England
Sunday, May 1st – 16.15 – Cape Verde v Portugal
