The Senegalese beach soccer team is just one step away from making history at the FIFA Beach Soccer World Cup™ after a dramatic, last-gasp 4-3 win over Italy in the quarter-finals at Paradise Arena.
Africa’s Pride March On
Senegal, Africa’s only remaining representative in the tournament, will now face Belarus in the semi-finals on Saturday. It’s a golden opportunity for the Lions of Teranga to go beyond their previous best finish—fourth place in 2021—and secure a spot in their first-ever World Cup final.
Their journey to the last four was anything but straightforward. Facing Italy, a side known for its composure and technical prowess, Senegal was forced to dig deep in a match that swung back and forth with relentless intensity.
The Game: A Seesaw Battle of Wills
Mamour Diagne opened the scoring, giving Senegal early hope. But Italy roared back in the second period through goals from Tommaso Fazzini, Emmanuele Zurlo, and Camillo Marchesi. It looked as if the tide had turned in favor of the Azzurri.
However, Sanou Laye Thiaw’s strike reignited Senegal’s charge, trimming the deficit to 3-2. As the final period approached, the game reached a fever pitch
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With Senegal staring down elimination, Ousseynou Faye stepped up with a crucial equalizer to force extra time. And just two seconds before the match could be decided by penalties, Diagne struck again—his second of the game—sending the crowd at Paradise Arena into a frenzy and Senegal into the semis.
The neutral Seychellois crowd cheered each Senegalese goal with the passion of hometown fans, creating an electric atmosphere in support of the African side.
Next Stop: Belarus
Senegal will need every ounce of momentum when they face Belarus, who edged past Iran 4-3 thanks to a brace from Ihar Bryshtsel. The Eastern Europeans have proven themselves formidable opponents and will pose a stern test for Senegal’s title aspirations.
Portugal and Brazil Set for Blockbuster Semi-Final
On the other side of the bracket, Portugal and Brazil will clash in a mouthwatering semi-final encounter. Portugal outlasted Japan 7-6 in a game for the ages—leading six times only for Japan to respond five times—until finally holding on. Defending champions Brazil had a much easier path, demolishing Spain 6-0 in a statement victory.
With football, drama, and national pride all on the line, this year’s FIFA Beach Soccer World Cup™ is shaping up to be one of the most thrilling in history.
Picture Credit: CAF Online
