Leo wows as Brazil, Japan grind out victory

Colombia 2-3 Japan
Portugal 8-2 Mexico
Senegal 4-6 Belarus
Brazil 5-3 Oman

Leo Martins turned Dubai Design District Stadium into his personal theatre as Portugal ran riot, while Brazil and Japan eked out hard-fought victories in their FIFA Beach Soccer World Cup™ curtain-raisers. Belarus, for their part, had Aleh Hapon to thank for a morale-boosting victory.

Colombia goals: Esleider De Avila pen, Julio Pantoja Japan goals: Takuya Akaguma, Ozu Moreira Player of the Match: Yusuke Kawai

Yusuke Kawai made a statement of adidas Golden Glove intent. The 35-year-old saved a penalty, made two other remarkable saves, and registered two assists. Los Cafeteros nevertheless made an admirable impression on their tournament debut with their heart and class.

“It was a very tactical game. We did our homework on them, but they were complex to face. I think both sides had very good moments, but in the end the defensive aspect settled it. We failed in our rotations.”

Juan Ossa, Colombia player

“He’s without doubt one of the best goalkeepers in the world. He’s maybe the best. I can’t understand why he never gets the recognition for this. He’s wonderful. You saw what he did today. He was outstanding.”

Ozu Moreira on Yusuke Kawai

Takuya Akaguma became the first Japanese to score in five successive FIFA Beach Soccer Word Cup games.

Portugal goals: Leo Martins (5), Jordan, Andre Lourenco, Be Martins Mexico goals: Hector Acevedo, Ramon Maldonado Player of the Match: Leo Martins

Leo Martins was utterly unplayable. The Portugal No11 was on the score-sheet after just 47 seconds and finished the game with five goals, a breathtaking elastic dribble making a cameo in between to the thrill of his adoring audience.

“Leo is amazing. He’s absurdly talented. Five goals in a World Cup, the first game, is incredible.”

André Lourenço, Portugal player

“Portugal are one of the best teams in the world. We can take confidence from the last two periods. It was very competitive. Now we need to play like that from the start against Oman.”

Edgar Portilla, Mexico player

Leo Martins has astonishingly scored five goals in back-to-back appearances in the FIFA Beach Soccer World Cup. He registered a quintet in Portugal’s 7-6 defeat by Uruguay in their last outing at Russia 2021. Leo has netted 20 goals in his last nine run-outs in the competition.

Senegal goals: Diagne (2), Samb, Mendy pen Belarus goals: Hapon (3), Bryshtsel (2), Piatrouski Player of the Match: Hapon

Could Belarus be dark horses to go all the way? Aleh Hapon said so pre-tournament then pushed others into agreeing with an excellent treble.

“We got off to a good start, but unfortunately the good Lord didn’t give us the win. We’re looking forward to the match against Colombia and we’re going to do what we can.”

Amar Samb, Senegal player

“I can’t even remember my goals! I’m really emotional. My girlfriend was here watching. To score three goals in a World Cup is a magical moment in my life.”

Aleh Hapon, Belarus player

Ihar Bryshtsel restored the Europeans’ advantage only three seconds after the African champions had equalised. It helped Belarus register six goals in a FIFA Beach Soccer World Cup game for the first time.

Brazil goals: Edson Hulk (2), Mauricinho, Catarino, Rodrigo Oman goals: Al Fazari, Al Sauti, Al Oraimi Player of the Match: Tiago Bobo

Oman pushed and pushed Brazil. Ultimately, though, Edson Hulk and the Seleção proved just too strong.

“We’re very happy. The first game at a World Cup is never easy, but we got what we wanted: three points. Now it’s Portugal. It’s the biggest fixture in the sport, the one everyone wants to see.” Rodrigo, Brazil player

Brazil’s Marco Octavio, 68, became the second-oldest coach in FIFA Beach Soccer World Cup history.

Saturday 17 February
Italy v Egypt
Spain v Tahiti
United Arab Emirates v USA
Argentina v IR Iran

SOURCE & PHOTOS: fifa.com