The draw for the FIFA Beach Soccer World Cup Russia 2021™ unfolded today at the Home of FIFA in Zurich.
– The FIFA Beach Soccer World Cup draw has taken place
– Tahiti-Spain and Brazil-Switzerland decorate the group stage
– Russia 2021 will kick off on 19 August
Record five-time champions Brazil will square off against Switzerland, whom they beat in a thrilling Dubai 2009 final, 2011 semi-finalists El Salvador and Belarus in a mouth-watering Group C.
Holders Portugal play Senegal, Uruguay and Oman in Group D, while Tahiti, the two-time runners-up, face an intriguing clash with Spain in Group B. United Arab Emirates and tournament newcomers Mozambique make up the pool.
Hosts Football Union of Russia will kick off the tournament on 19 August against USA. The teams have Japan and Paraguay for company in Group A.
Group A
RFU
USA
Paraguay
Japan
Group B
Mozambique
Spain
UAE
Tahiti
Group C
Belarus
El Salvador
Switzerland
Brazil
Group D
Portugal
Oman
Senegal
Uruguay
“It’s a really difficult group,” said Brazil captain Bruno Xavier. “It’s certainly the toughest group. Belarus are a great side. Nico is an excellent coach and he knows Brazil very well.
“Switzerland have been one of the toughest opponents for years, and El Salvador are another really strong side who did really well in qualifying. It’s wide open.”
Switzerland coach Angelo Schirinzi added: “It is a very difficult group. We don’t have to discuss Brazil. Belarus and El Salvador are also top teams.
“But it’s a World Cup, so it’s a big challenge. I’m really looking forward to the tournament.”
Portugal legend Madjer, who helped conduct the draw, said: “It’s going to be a tough tournament. Portugal will face three national teams we know quite well because we played against them in previous World Cups. We hope to go through.”
Source: FIFA.com
