Dubai - Iran made it to the
semifinals of the ongoing Fifa Beach Soccer World Cup 2008 qualifier after
their crushing hapless Philippines on the second day of the competition at
the Jumeirah Beach Park on Wednesday.
Iran had their hands full with Ahmede Athab’s boys, who were very eager to
show the crowd that Beach Soccer is growing in their country. The
Philippines can say that their debut at a Beach Soccer World Cup Qualifier
has been a success. The newcomers showed courage and were clearly enjoying
their first ever experience at the highest Beach Soccer level. Iran took an
early lead which they never gave away and demonstrated they’re ready for the
game against powerhouse Japan.
Iran’s coach Falthzadeh said: “This was our first game of the season, so I
can’t be unhappy with this result. But at the same time I realise that
tomorrow’s game against Japan will be a different story. Qualification is
the very least of my side’s desires and I think my players showed the right
spirit to do so.”
Meanwhile, China is still in the running for Marseille as they beat the
former Soviets 4-3 in the most nerve-wracking game of the Dubai showdown so
far. Rodrigo Stockler’s boys confirmed their bosses’ confident outings
before the start of the competition. They surprised the crowd with fast and
physical Beach Soccer, a style very similar to the Uzbekistan way of
playing. Unfortunately for this year’s second newcomer, the Dubai story ends
here, and will have to wait until next year to get an inch closer to
continental glory.
China’s coach Rodrigo Stockler said: “We knew it was very important to win
against Uzbekistan if we still want to make a shot for World Cup
qualification. We take three points into the second matchday, which is
exactly as much as the hosts and defending champions UAE, who will be our
opponents tomorrow.
“Marcelo Mendes’ team is strong and has a lot of experience at the highest
Beach Soccer level, but I know my country fellowman very well as I used to
have him as coach myself.
“We won’t be handing out any gifts.”
Today’s Fixtures (semifinals): 8pm: Match 7 (Semi-final 1): 1st Group B X.
2nd Group A. Followed by - Match 8 (Semi-final 2): 1st Group A X 2nd Group
B.
